Bangkok: Strict orders have been issued to ensure safe travel during the upcoming Songkran Festival 2015, with support for amendments to the drunk driving law to impose imprisonment for offenders. Mr. Surapong Piyachote, Deputy Minister of Transport, has called for stringent measures to prevent road accidents during the holiday period, which marks a time when many people travel to celebrate Songkran.
According to Thai News Agency, the Don’t Drive Drunk Foundation, in collaboration with the State Railway of Thailand, Transport Co., Ltd., the Health Promotion Fund Office (ThaiHealth), and various campaign networks, organized a “Campaign for Safe Songkran, Join Hands to Reduce Road Accidents” event at the Krungthep Aphiwat Central Station. The initiative aims to educate the public on the dangers of drunk driving and promote safe travel practices through activities, stickers, and pamphlets.
Mr. Surapong expressed concern over the potential increase in road accidents during the festival, given the five consecutive holidays encouraging travel. The Ministry of Transport is implementing strict safety measures, focusing on accident prevention. Drivers will undergo rigorous checks for alcohol consumption, speeding, and other violations. Offenders may face severe penalties, including dismissal, salary deductions, or suspension. Public vehicle drivers, responsible for passenger safety, are expected to maintain higher standards, with any alcohol consumption considered a violation punishable by up to three months of imprisonment, fines ranging from 2,000 to 10,000 baht, or both.
The Ministry supports amending the drunk driving law to impose harsher penalties, particularly for cases resulting in fatalities. Data shows that over 50% of accidents involve private cars, often occurring within five kilometers of home and involving motorcycles. Peak accident times are between 15.00-22.00 hrs.
Dr. Taejing Siripanich, Secretary-General of the Don’t Drive Drunk Foundation, emphasized the need for serious action against drunk drivers. He advocates for courts to impose severe punishments, such as imprisonment without probation, especially during the “7 dangerous days” of Songkran. Since the campaign’s inception, daily fatalities have decreased from 250 to an average of 40, highlighting the campaign’s impact on reducing accidents.