Bangkok: The first day of the long Songkran holiday has seen significant traffic congestion as people journey back to their hometowns. Heavy traffic was reported on all routes of the Asian Highway and Friendship Highway, creating slowdowns and delays for travelers.

According to Thai News Agency, the congestion was particularly severe on Highway 347, which runs from Pathum Thani Province and merges with the Asian Highway in Bang Pahan District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. The Worachet traffic light intersection experienced major slowdowns, while traffic police were actively managing the flow. On Phahonyothin Road in Wang Noi District, traffic was also congested, although vehicles continued to move. Authorities anticipate increased traffic volume on all routes as the evening and night progress, advising motorists to plan their journeys and allocate additional travel time.

The northbound Asian Highway, stretching from Ang Thong Province to Phrom Buri District in Sing Buri Province, is experiencing heavy traffic across all lanes. Vehicles are moving slowly, at speeds of 40-50 km/hour, especially at bottlenecks like the Bang Kaeo Bridge and the Ang Thong interchange construction site. Rest areas, including a gas station in Chaiyo District, are crowded.

Police have recommended using secondary routes for travelers heading north. Alternative routes include the canal road and Highway 33, which bypass the congested sections. Another option is the old Highway 309 through Ang Thong, Sing Buri, and Chai Nat, offering a more convenient journey.

Mittraphap Road, leading to northeastern provinces such as Khon Kaen, is also facing heavy traffic. Traffic congestion spans over 20 kilometers between intersections in Nakhon Ratchasima Province. To alleviate congestion, highway police have opened a special lane. Despite these efforts, vehicles are moving slowly at 40-60 kilometers per hour, with traffic expected to intensify into the evening.

Aerial views of the Nakhon Ratchasima bypass road reveal heavy traffic, slow movement, and occasional stops. The Highway Department has installed barriers to separate lanes due to incomplete road construction. Most vehicles in the area are private cars and pickup trucks, as people travel to visit relatives for the Songkran holiday.