Officials have declared strict regulations to ensure that water-splashing venues across the country remain alcohol-free during the upcoming Songkran festival next month. The alcoholic beverage control committee has announced a complete ban on alcohol at all Songkran venues throughout the festival period. Although the official Songkran public holiday is from April 13-17, the “World Songkran Festival” will take place from April 1-21 to attract tourists.
Authorities will be vigilant in enforcing the alcohol ban, particularly to prevent minors from accessing alcohol and unauthorized sales beyond permitted hours. Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew, leading a committee meeting on Tuesday, confirmed the approval of alcohol control guidelines proposed by the Department of Disease Control and other relevant bodies.
This initiative is part of the national alcoholic beverage control scheme (2022-27), aimed at decreasing road accident casualties, with a significant proportion of incidents attributed to drunk driving. Dr. Cholnan urged provincial governors and local administrations to establish alcohol-free zones for Songkran celebrants to uphold public safety and order.
Enhanced preventive measures will be implemented in local communities to deter drunk driving incidents, including increased roadside checkpoints. Motorists and motorcyclists involved in accidents will undergo breathalyser or blood tests. Individuals under 20 found driving under the influence with a blood alcohol level exceeding 20 milligrammes will face investigations to trace the source of the alcohol they consumed, potentially leading to prosecution of the seller.
Moreover, individuals on probation for drunk driving offenses who are rearrested for similar violations will be promptly referred to rehabilitation centers operated by the Ministry of Public Health, as emphasized by Dr. Cholnan.
