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As Thailand's Songkran festival, the traditional Thai New Year, unfolds, the joyous celebration has been overshadowed by a grim reality. The Road Safety Centre reports that the death toll has climbed to 200, with over 1,300 injuries during the first six days of the festival, putting a spotlight on the country's persistent road safety challenges.
The yearly "Seven Dangerous Days" campaign, spanning April 11 to 16, recorded a troubling 1,377 road accidents, with speeding and motorcyclists featuring prominently in these incidents. The Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Interior Ministry, Kachorn Srichavanothai, conveyed these unsettling figures at a press briefing, revealing that on April 16 alone, 155 accidents resulted in 22 fatalities and 149 injuries.
The bulk of these incidents are linked to motorcycles, prompting authorities to intensify efforts at checkpoints to ensure helmet compliance. "Although many have returned to work, others are still travelling back from holiday destinations. We will continue strict enforcement," Kachorn emphasised.
A detailed breakdown reveals Lampang bore the brunt of accidents and injuries yesterday, recording nine of each. In contrast, provinces like Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, Pathum Thani, Ang Thong, and Phetchaburi each reported two deaths, marking them as particularly hazardous stretches.
Across the entire period from April 11 to 16, Bangkok reported the highest death toll with 16 fatalities, while Phatthalung recorded the most accidents at 52. Lampang, again, reported the highest number of injuries, tallying up to 56.
While the figures are concerning, there is a silver lining with 15 provinces recording zero fatalities, suggesting certain regions have managed to bolster road safety effectively.
Saharat Wongsakulwiwat, Deputy Director General of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, issued a reminder to motorists to rest adequately and ensure their vehicles are in safe condition before hitting the road. "Fatigue and mechanical failures are a deadly combination," he warned, urging drivers to remain vigilant.
With one final day of Songkran travel ahead, authorities are on high alert. The overarching message is one of caution: "Drive safely, slow down, and keep your wits about you," officials urge, hoping to prevent further additions to the somber statistics.
As the Songkran festival draws to its close, the recent tragedies serve as a poignant reminder of the pressing need for improved road safety measures in Thailand. The festive season's dual nature—as a time of both celebration and danger—continues to call for vigilant action from both officials and the public alike, reported The Thaiger.
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