PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand’s Royal Thai Police has mobilized nationwide resources to manage a massive outbound travel surge as more than 700,000 vehicles are expected to leave Bangkok on the first day of the Songkran holiday.
At around 4:00 p.m. on April 10, Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiewphan, Deputy Inspector General and spokesperson for the Royal Thai Police, visited the Bang Pa-in interchange on Highway 1 (Phahonyothin Road) in Wang Noi district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, to monitor traffic conditions and assess police operations.
The area is a major convergence point for traffic from the Rangsit elevated tollway and both the eastern and western outer ring roads, making it one of the busiest routes out of the capital. Authorities noted that traffic volumes are expected to rise further into the evening and peak again the following day.
Police have deployed traffic and highway patrol units to accelerate vehicle flow and reduce congestion. In high-density areas, officers are prepared to expand road capacity by opening special lanes, increasing traffic flow from five to eight lanes to prevent bottlenecks and long tailbacks.
Officials said recent infrastructure improvements, including the opening of the M6 motorway toward the Northeast, have helped ease congestion by providing alternative routes for travelers. However, authorities remain on high alert as travel demand continues to build.
This year, the Royal Thai Police are also leveraging technology to improve traffic management. Drones have been deployed to monitor real-time conditions, detect accidents or vehicle breakdowns, and allow officers to respond quickly on the ground. The aerial surveillance is expected to significantly enhance efficiency in managing traffic flow and assisting motorists.
In parallel, the “Leave Your Home with the Police” program has launched for the holiday period, with 627 households registering on the first day. The initiative allows police to help monitor unattended homes while residents travel, adding an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
Authorities emphasized that officers nationwide are working around the clock to facilitate safe and smooth travel, ensuring that people can return to their hometowns and reunite with families during Songkran. Travelers are advised to plan ahead, allow extra time for their journeys, and follow traffic updates closely throughout the holiday period.
