A shopping mall was eerily deserted in darkness today as Covid-19 cases continue to rise in Thailand.

Footage shows empty shops and restaurants inside a ‘The Street’ complex in the Thai capital Bangkok on August 19 as lockdowns that were first introduced in July were extended until the end of the month.

Bank branches and non-bank financial offices in shopping centres were allowed to reopen on August 18. Other shops such as general stores have also asked the Covid-19 task force to be allowed to resume their operation but the application was rejected.

Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) spokesman Taweesilp Visanuyothin said: ‘The Public Health Ministry is of the view that consumers have alternative ways to buy products, such as online orders.’

Thailand has recorded 989,859 Covid-19 cases and 8,586 deaths as of August 19 – with cases rising dramatically since April when the Indian Delta variant emerged in the country.

Economists have warned that it could be another five years before the country’s tourism industry returns to pre-pandemic levels.

Two years ago tourism made up an estimated 21 per cent of Thailand’s GDP, generating 1.8 trillion baht in revenue. However, the country’s National Economic and Social Development Council predicted that it could be another five years before similar numbers are seen.

Analysts said that between now and 2026, around seven million workers will continue to be affected by the economic harm from the Covid-19 pandemic.