Thai Deputy Prime Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul on January 14 said the government is able to control the current situation, with a string of measures to be rolled out to ensure tourist safety and the normal operation of flights.

He delivered the information when the Bangkok shutdown operation, launched by anti-government protesters to force the caretaker government to step down, entered its second day. In the morning, protesters besieged the Customs Department, Commerce Ministry and Labour Ministry.

The blockades have failed to prevent the proper functioning of these ministries, Surapong said, adding their hotlines are available for consultation.

According to Surapong, the Tourism and Sports Ministry has set up a service centre to help commuting tourists, with the utmost attention paid to the protection of the visitors.

He added that no reports had been received on tourists being injured during the rally.

The anti-government Network of Students and People for Reform of Thailand earlier threatened to blockade Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai) unless caretaker Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra stepped down by January 15.

If Aerothai is disrupted, all flights that take off and land in Thailand or fly over Thai territory will be affected, Surapong said, adding that the office will do its best to avoid falling into such a situation.-VNA