The Songkran festival, which is celebrated annually in Thailand, is known for its festive water fights and partying. However, it has also gained a reputation for being one of the deadliest times on the roads due to increased traffic and road accidents.
According to the Secretary General of the Thai Public Health Ministry, Dr Opas Karnkawinpong, there was an uptick in serious injuries related to road accidents during this year’s Songkran festival. Dr Opas said that 91% of the serious injuries were due to people not wearing seat belts.
Data collected from April 11 to 16 revealed that there were 17,775 injuries, an increase of 19.26% from the previous year. There were also 232 deaths, a decrease of 26.81% from the previous year. Among those injured, 3,814 people had to be hospitalised, an increase of 81.84%, The Pattaya News reported.
The three provinces with the highest number of…
