BANGKOK, Thailand – Authorities have reinforced five key measures to prevent and reduce road accidents during the Songkran Festival, following the launch of the 2025 national road safety campaign. Running from April 11 to 17, the operation is overseen by the Road Safety Operations Center under the Ministry of Public Health. The campaign targets major risk factors such as speeding, impaired driving, and reckless behavior. On the first day, 27 people were reported dead and 201 injured in 211 accidents across the country, with motorcycles involved in more than 83 percent of the cases.
Speeding, sudden lane changes, and driving under the influence were the leading causes of accidents. Most incidents occurred on straight roads, particularly highways and local community routes. The highest number of crashes took place between noon and 9 p.m., with people aged 60 to 69 accounting for the largest share of casualties. Bangkok reported the highest number of fatalities, while Mukdahan province recorded the most accidents and injuries.
More than 50,000 officers have been deployed to 1,737 checkpoints nationwide. Provincial authorities have been instructed to strengthen enforcement of traffic laws and alcohol regulations, including restrictions on sales to minors and during prohibited hours. Alongside formal enforcement, community and family-based monitoring efforts are being used to identify and prevent risky behavior. Each province has been urged to adapt its approach to local conditions and trends.
Public transportation is under increased surveillance, with GPS systems being used to track vehicle speeds and driver working hours. Provincial transport offices and police units are working together to ensure passenger safety, especially on long-haul routes. Roadside assistance and service points have been established, with clear signage and designated zones to avoid disruptions to traffic flow.
Severe weather forecasts have triggered additional warnings for motorists, especially in northern provinces, where thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail are expected from April 12 to 14. Drivers have been advised to reduce speed and avoid hazardous areas.
