Bangkok: The Ministry of Labor is gearing up for a safe Songkran Festival by implementing measures to ensure the well-being of both Thai and foreign workers. This initiative aims to provide workers with peace of mind, guaranteeing their rights, welfare, and safety as they travel during the festive season.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Karom Polpornklang, Deputy Government Spokesperson, announced that the government is facilitating safe travel for citizens returning to their hometowns for Songkran 2025. The Ministry of Labor has instructed its agencies to support both Thai and foreign workers and their employers. This support includes ensuring rights, welfare, and safety on all routes, achieved through the collaborative efforts of agencies under the ministry.
The Ministry has introduced several measures for the Songkran Festival 2025. Firstly, migrant workers from Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar with valid permits are allowed to visit their families without needing a re-entry permit, provided they return to Thailand by May 15, 2025. Those returning after this date will need a new permit. Employers and workers are urged to adhere to the stipulated conditions to retain their rights.
In addition, free vehicle inspection services will be available from April 11-17, 2025, at various skill development institutes and service points on major and minor roads. This initiative, conducted in collaboration with relevant agencies, aims to ensure safe travel under the theme ‘Drive Save D, Check Before Traveling’.
The Department of Labor Protection and Welfare is encouraging employers to grant employees a day off during Songkran, allowing them to participate in traditional activities. Employers are reminded that drivers should not work more than eight hours per day, and any overtime must not exceed two hours, with a required letter of consent from the employee. A minimum rest period of ten hours is mandatory before resuming work.
The Social Security Office has also made provisions for insured individuals to receive emergency medical treatment at the nearest hospital within 72 hours, using only their national ID card. This measure ensures swift treatment and coordination with hospitals in the social security network. Insured individuals are advised to keep their national ID cards with them to safeguard their rights during the festival.
Moreover, the Safety Institute (SSI) is launching the ‘Add Heart to Safety on Every Route’ campaign to raise awareness among bus and van drivers about road safety, ensuring passengers reach their destinations safely.
‘The government is committed to providing comprehensive services to ensure our workers and citizens can travel safely, enjoy family time, and return to work with renewed morale. I wish everyone safe travels during this year’s Songkran festival,’ Mr. Karom expressed.