Chiang Rai News
Day One of Songkrans Seven Dangerous Days, 25 Dead, 334 Injured
The majority (80.77%) of the accidents involved motorcycles in Songkran Accidents
BANGKOK – Ministry of Transport’s Inspector General Sanit Promwong reports that at least 25 people were killed and another 334 injured in the first day of the Songkran holidays.
General Sanit Promwong said the major cause for the accidents was drunk driving at 25.31%, followed by speeding, 24.38% and Motorcycles are the vehicles engaged in most accidents at 80.77%.
Nakhon Sri Thammarat has recorded the highest number of accidents so far, while Krabi and Petchaburi have reportedly had the highest number of road fatalities; with 2 people killed so far. Provinces with no accidents reported are mostly in the Northeast of the country.
Meanwhile, The Public Health Ministry is advising anyone with a cold to avoid joining water splashing activities during the Songkran Festival as it is concerned about the possible spread of dengue fever and influenza.
Public Health Minister Ratchata Ratchatanawin explained that there’s a higher possibility of the two contagious diseases spreading among crowds gathered in one place for a family reunion or traveling to tourist attractions. They can easily become a disease carrier, transmitting or receiving an illness.
