Post by : Shakul
Ahead of the bustling Songkran Festival 2026, Thailand is ramping up its road safety protocols, with explicit orders given to provincial governors to safeguard citizens during one of the year’s most traveled periods.
Under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's guidance, a unified approach across various sectors is being prioritized to diminish accidents and ensure smooth travel throughout the nation.
A seven-day initiative, termed the “dangerous period”, will run from April 10 to April 16, concentrating on accident prevention, stringent law enforcement, and raising public awareness. The goal is to create safer travel conditions for residents heading home and tourists exploring the country.
On the campaign's inaugural day, April 10, there were 135 recorded accidents resulting in 132 injuries and 20 deaths. The major culprits were identified as speeding and abrupt lane changes, with motorcycles contributing to more than 70% of these incidents.
In a bid to bolster safety measures, officials have received directives to vigorously enforce traffic laws, target drunk driving, and establish convenient checkpoints. These points will provide water, snacks, medical supplies, and resting spots for travelers while maintaining unbroken traffic flow.
Moreover, local and family checkpoints will be set up to monitor potential dangers and mitigate accidents on community roads. Authorities are also alleviating concerns regarding fuel shortages by assuring citizens of a stable fuel supply nationwide.
As the festival coincides with soaring temperatures, the public is warned to be vigilant for signs of fatigue, dizziness, and heatstroke. Emergency services, including hotline 1669 and other safety numbers, are accessible 24/7 to promptly tackle accidents or health crises.
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