The Songkran competition, which is well known annually in Thailand, is understood for its festive water fights and partying. However, it has also gained a popularity for being one of many deadliest times on the roads due to increased traffic and street accidents.
According to the Secretary General of the Thai Public Health Ministry, Dr Opas Karnkawinpong, there was an uptick in severe accidents related to highway accidents throughout this year’s Songkran pageant. Dr Opas mentioned that 91% of the serious injuries have been due to folks not wearing seat belts.
Data collected from April eleven to 16 revealed that there have been 17,775 accidents, a rise of 19.26% from the previous 12 months. There had been also 232 deaths, a decrease of 26.81% from the previous year. Among those injured, three,814 people needed to be hospitalised, a rise of 81.84%, The Pattaya News reported.
The three provinces with the best variety of fatalities had been Nakhon Ratchasima with 12 fatalities, adopted by Chiang Rai and Pathum Thani with nine and eight fatalities. The high three provinces with the best variety of accidents have been Chiang Mai with 811 accidents, Nakhon Ratchasima with 782, and Khon Kaen with 665.
Dr Opas said the risk issue that contributed to serious injuries the most was individuals not carrying seat belts, which accounted for ninety one.95% of the general accidents. Instant and not carrying bike helmets additionally played a component, contributing to 31.51% and 10.77% of injuries.
To stop additional accidents, Dr Opas urged citizens to watch out whereas driving, especially between April sixteen and 17 (today and tomorrow) when visitors across the nation can be flooded with folks travelling back residence after their Songkran journeys. He also urged folks to get sufficient rest, check their vehicles, comply with traffic legal guidelines, and plan their routes to minimise accidents.
While Songkran is a time for celebration, people must take precautions and prioritise their safety, particularly when travelling on the roads.
Apart from the Songkran festival, street security is a large problem in Thailand normally..