Bangkok: The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has recommended four alternative routes to avoid traffic congestion during the upcoming 2026 Songkran festival. The CIB encourages travelers to plan ahead and make use of these routes to enhance safety and reduce road congestion. The highway police are prepared to assist the public throughout the festival period.
According to Thai News Agency, the CIB, under the leadership of Pol. Lt. Gen. Natthasak Chaowanasai, has tasked the Highway Police Division with implementing measures to facilitate smoother public travel during the Songkran festival from April 11-15, 2026. The initiative aims to streamline traffic flow, diminish accidents, and bolster travel safety.
Police Major General Pornsak Laorujiralai, Commander of the Highway Police Division, held a meeting to strategize traffic management and safety measures. The Traffic Control and Command Center, reachable via hotline 1193, has been instructed to provide comprehensive assistance to travelers, with an emphasis on courteous and prompt service. The dissemination of useful travel information is also a priority.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Pornsak stated that the Traffic Control and Command Center utilizes a network of CCTV cameras, alongside data on high-risk and congested areas, to manage traffic in real-time. This approach enables quick responses to traffic situations and helps alleviate road congestion.
Four main alternative routes were suggested to cover the North, Northeast, East, and South regions. These routes aim to distribute traffic away from main roads and help the public plan their journeys more efficiently.
Additional measures include opening special lanes on certain routes to ease congestion and providing walk-in rest areas at highway police service units nationwide. The highway police advise travelers to plan routes in advance, check vehicle conditions, ensure adequate rest, and avoid prolonged driving.
The Highway Police are ready to assist the public throughout the Songkran festival. For route information and assistance, travelers can contact the 24-hour hotline at 1193, or check traffic updates on the "Highway Police" Facebook page.