Bangkok: Police have issued a ban on closing roads for Songkran water festivities without permission. The Bangkok Metropolitan Police Commissioner has ordered police to oversee Songkran festivities, prohibiting road closures and water fights outside designated areas.

According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Gen. Siam Boonsom, Commander of the Metropolitan Police, revealed security measures during the Songkran festival in Bangkok. He stated that the police, in cooperation with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and event organizers, will focus on screening attendees to prevent weapons or illegal items from being brought in, as well as to deter crime. Emergency medical routes will also be established. These measures will be implemented at 17 major event locations throughout Bangkok, such as Khao San Road, Silom Road, major shopping malls, Benjakitti Park, and various temples, as well as at smaller event venues, to ensure the smooth and safe running of the festival.

This year, the Bangkok Metropolitan Police Command prohibits people from closing roads to play water fights during Songkran without permission. This is because last year, some areas experienced disruptions due to unauthorized road closures and stall setups, such as on Thawi Watthana Road in Don Mueang and Chok Chai 4. The police emphasize that small-scale water fights in front of homes, reflecting local customs and traditions, are acceptable, but closing entire streets or alleys is strictly prohibited. The police will clearly announce traffic regulations and prohibited areas for water fights, including a ban on large vehicles entering inner Bangkok.

While Immigration Police are setting up checkpoints at all major event locations to monitor and watch for foreign nationals who may be infiltrating the area, using CCTV cameras to verify facial features against databases held by both the Immigration Police and the Bangkok Metropolitan Police, the Bangkok Metropolitan Police, based on the increased number of Songkran water-playing locations, anticipate a higher population density in Bangkok during Songkran. This is likely due to rising fuel prices potentially reducing travel outside of Bangkok, necessitating increased security measures. Currently, no intelligence indicates any suspicious groups or incidents requiring monitoring.