Governor Chadchart aims for no more than 6 deaths in Bangkok this Songkran

Governor of Bangkok Chadchart Sittipunt said that he hopes no more than six people will die during Songkran festivities in the capital of Thailand from April 13-15.

Yesterday, Governor Chadchart chaired a meeting with Bangkok Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee to discuss measures to prevent alcohol-fuelled accidents, injuries, and deaths in Bangkok this Thai New Year.

The committee will implement measures that discourage drink driving and reduce the harm caused by alcohol, whether it be on the roads or alcohol-induced violence and brawls.

Chadchart said that although accidents and deaths were relatively low during Songkran 2022, more tourists will be joining the festivities this year now that three years of Covid-19 restrictions have ended, so measures must be put in place to minimise the damage.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has designated 35 locations in 24 areas to host cultural, alcohol-free Songkran activities which will be publicised as a way for people to celebrate the occasion safely.

Governor Chadchart said…

“We must ask for the public’s cooperation in areas where alcohol has been prohibited. I want these areas to be safe for every member of the family. This year we will focus on cultural traditions. I want everyone to work together with ease.

“Our goal this year is to reduce deaths. Last year there were 13 deaths. This year we wish to reduce this figure by more than half so there are no more than six deaths.

“This goal might not be easy because there are other dangers aside from alcohol, such as not wearing helmets.”

The BMA recently announced that the area in front of City Hall in Phra Nakhon has been designated as the main area for water-splashing activities in the capital. Additionally, all 50 district offices will personally organise their Songkran events.

Songkran revellers will not be permitted to dress scantily this year as Chadchart has also banned inappropriate clothing as part of his Songkran policy.

The Women and Men Progressive Movement Foundation (WMP) criticised Chadchart’s sexy dress ban. They said the policy is victim-blaming and protects sexual offenders.