During the first three days of Thailand's Songkran water festival, from 10-12/4, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation reported 515 traffic accidents, resulting in 95 fatalities and 486 injuries. Speeding was the primary cause of these incidents, followed by drunk driving. Motorcycles were involved in 77% of all reported accidents, with most occurring on straight roads.

The main Songkran festivities, from 13-15/4, are expected to draw the largest crowds of residents and tourists for water splashing activities. Phadoongsak Sarujikamjornwattana, Inspector General of Thailand's Ministry of Transport, stated that accident risks remain high. Authorities are supervising a safety campaign for water activities and strictly enforcing the ban on alcohol sales to underage individuals.

The Songkran festival is underway across Thailand. *Photo: Reuters*

Phadoongsak also urged festival-goers to exercise caution during Songkran. He advised against splashing water on motorcyclists, as this can cause riders to lose control. Furthermore, tourists and residents should avoid splashing water in the middle of roads due to collision risks. Participants are also encouraged to limit sitting or standing in the back of pickup trucks during parades to prevent falls.

The 2026 Songkran water festival officially runs from 13-15/4, though celebrations often begin a few days earlier, creating a lively atmosphere across the country, particularly in Bangkok. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) projects total revenue of 30.35 billion baht (over 945 million USD), a 6% increase from last year. This includes an estimated 500,000 foreign tourists, a 4% rise, generating 8.1 billion baht (252 million USD) in revenue, up 2%. The domestic market is expected to account for 5.9 million trips, a 7% increase, contributing about 22.25 billion baht (695 million USD) in tourism revenue, an 8% rise.