Songkran Road Toll Reaches 171, Speeding and Drink-Driving Remain Leading Causes
BANGKOK, Thailand – April 16, 2025 — Traffic accidents during the first five days of the Songkran holiday claimed 171 lives and injured 1,208 people, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation.
Nationwide Incident Report (April 11–15)
- Total accidents: 1,216
- Fatalities: 171
- Injuries: 1,208
Regional Highlights
- Phatthalung Province recorded the highest number of accidents: 44
- Bangkok had the most fatalities: 15 deaths
- Lampang Province reported the most injuries: 47 people
Primary Causes
- Speeding and driving under the influence of alcohol were again the leading factors behind the majority of accidents, according to Kachorn Srichawanothai, deputy permanent secretary of the Interior Ministry.
Positive Trend: Fewer Accidents Than Last Year
Kachorn noted that the figures represent a decline in accidents, injuries, and deaths compared to the same period during last year’s Songkran festival. However, he warned that April 16, the final day of the holiday, posed a high risk for accidents due to heavy return traffic.
More Travelers Choosing Public Transport
According to Chakree Bamrungwong, inspector-general at the Ministry of Transport:
- Bus passengers increased by 7%
- Train and air travel saw a 30% increase, highlighting a shift in travel habits toward safer transportation options
Looking Ahead
Authorities continue to urge drivers to follow traffic laws and avoid reckless behavior as the holiday wraps up. Checkpoints and monitoring will remain active to curb violations and ensure a safer end to the Songkran period.
