Thailand Reports Surge in Drink-Driving During Songkran
Thailand Reports Surge in Drink-Driving During Songkran
BANGKOK, April 15, 2026 — Drink-driving accounted for more than 94% of probation cases recorded during the first five days of Thailand’s Songkran festival, authorities said, underscoring persistent road safety concerns during the holiday period.
The Probation Department said it handled 3,961 cases between April 10 and 14, of which 3,726 involved alcohol-related driving offences.
Chiang Mai recorded the highest number of cases, reflecting ongoing risks in major holiday destinations where travel and celebrations peak.
Piya Raksakul, director-general of the department, said authorities are continuing enforcement efforts under a national road safety campaign aimed at reducing accidents.
Other offences recorded during the period included 230 cases of drug-impaired driving, along with a small number of reckless driving and illegal street racing cases.
On April 14 alone, 667 cases entered the probation system, with drink-driving accounting for nearly 98%, despite fewer reports due to court closures.
Authorities said offenders are subject to probation measures, including community service and road safety education programmes.
Officials have urged the public to adhere to safe driving practices, particularly as millions travel during and after the Songkran holiday, one of the country’s busiest periods for road traffic.
Thailand regularly records high numbers of road accidents during Songkran, with alcohol consumption a major contributing factor.
