BURIRAM, Thailand – Traffic surged on the first day of the extended Songkran holiday as Highway 24, a key route heading toward Thailand’s lower northeastern region, became increasingly congested with vehicles traveling through Nang Rong district in Buriram province.
Officials reported rising traffic volumes along the Chok Chai–Det Udom route, which connects central and eastern regions to provinces including Buriram, Surin, Si Sa Ket, and Ubon Ratchathani. While traffic remained moving, authorities expect heavier congestion later in the evening as more travelers begin their long-distance journeys home.
Police and highway officers in Nang Rong, working alongside the local highway maintenance unit, installed barricades to close two high-risk U-turn points—one near Nang Rong Hospital and another near Nang Rong municipality. The closures will remain in place until traffic eases, aiming to reduce accident risks during peak flow conditions.
Some travelers expressed concern over rising fuel costs this year, saying expenses have nearly doubled compared to previous holidays. Despite the financial burden, many said they still chose to return home, describing Songkran as the only opportunity in the year to reunite with family during a long break.
