Woman Filmed Vaping on Bangkok BTS Train Sparks Outrage
January 15, 2025 — A video showing a woman vaping on a crowded BTS Skytrain in Bangkok has gone viral on TikTok, sparking widespread criticism and raising questions about public etiquette and law enforcement.
The clip shows the woman casually texting with a vape in her left hand, occasionally taking a drag while surrounded by other passengers. The TikTok user who posted the video alleged that the vape contained marijuana, citing the distinct odor.
The caption accompanying the video read: “Don’t do this. I have already alerted the Chong Nonsi station chief. Please fine her to set an example, as there were children and elderly passengers on the train.”
The video quickly gained traction online, with commenters overwhelmingly condemning the woman’s behavior. Many highlighted the illegality of vaping in Thailand, particularly in public spaces, and expressed concern about the impact on other passengers, including children and the elderly.
Some users asked for advice on handling similar situations, while others called for stricter enforcement of laws prohibiting vaping and the use of marijuana in public.
Under Thai law, vaping is illegal, with offenders facing significant fines or even imprisonment. The recent decriminalization of cannabis has also come with strict regulations against its public use, making the woman’s alleged actions doubly problematic.
Authorities have yet to confirm whether action will be taken against the woman. The incident underscores growing tensions around vaping and cannabis use in public spaces, as Thailand grapples with balancing personal freedoms and public health concerns.
The BTS Skytrain network has also urged passengers to report such incidents to station staff or security to ensure public safety and compliance with the law.