Bangkok: The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to all agencies for their efforts in safeguarding the public during the Songkran Festival, following a report indicating a significant decrease in accident statistics by more than 20% over four days. The government continues to enforce strict control measures across all areas to minimize potential losses.
According to Thai News Agency, Jirayu Huangsap, spokesman for the Prime Minister's Office, announced that Prime Minister Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra received a report on the success of accident prevention campaigns during Songkran. These efforts were guided by the directives from the Cabinet meeting on April 8, revealing a significant reduction in both injuries and fatalities compared to the same period last year.
The Prime Minister extended her appreciation to all agencies involved in ensuring public safety, highlighting the effectiveness of strict measures and campaigns that contributed to the reduced statistics. Agencies have been urged to maintain vigilance throughout the remainder of the Songkran festival.
Mr. Jirayu further reported that Pol. Gen. Kraibhun Trawadsong, Deputy Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, provided an update on the efforts of the police and the Road Accident Prevention and Reduction Center during Songkran 2025. On April 14, the fourth day of the intensive campaign, there was a notable decrease in accidents by over 20%.
On April 14, 2025, there were 241 reported accidents, a reduction of 76 from the previous year's 317 on the same date, marking a 23.97% decrease. Chiang Rai reported the highest number of accidents (11), followed by Lop Buri (9), with several other provinces reporting eight accidents each.
The number of admitted injuries also declined, with 249 injuries compared to 319 the previous year, reflecting a 21.94% reduction. Chiang Rai again topped the list with 13 injuries, followed by Surat Thani and Lop Buri. The death toll saw a decrease to 34 from 40, a 15% reduction, with Sa Kaeo reporting the highest fatalities (6).
Cumulative statistics from April 11-14, 2025, show a 21.51% decrease in accidents, from 1,274 to 1,000. Phatthalung reported the highest cumulative accidents, while the number of admitted injuries dropped by 21.78%. The death toll also fell by 26.60%, from 188 to 138, with Bangkok having the most fatalities.
Mr. Jirayu emphasized the government's commitment to strict measures and urged public cooperation in avoiding drink-driving and adhering to traffic laws to prevent further losses during the festival. He reminded everyone that a moment of carelessness could lead to irreversible consequences.