The People’s Safety Foundation has urged the government to implement stricter safety protocols to reduce road accidents ahead of Thailand’s New Year festivities. Nikorn Chamnong, the foundation’s chairman and a List MP of the Chartthaipattana Party, expressed concerns over the expected surge in travelers due to eased pandemic restrictions. He highlighted the risk associated with a large influx of people traveling enthusiastically across the country, citing a notable increase in road accidents since Christmas Day, with 56 fatalities reported on Monday and 53 on Tuesday.
Chamnong cautioned against potential dangers posed by families traveling together in rented vehicles during the extended holiday period. The government approved a four-day New Year holiday, initially planning an additional day off on January 2 but later shifting it to December 29. Chamnong worried that this change might lead to fatigue-induced risks as people rush back to work on January 2 after the celebrations.
Referring to past statistics from January 1, 2019, where 91 deaths occurred due to road accidents, Nikorn warned of similar risks this coming January 1. He raised concerns about the newly extended operating hours for nightlife venues, fearing that this might exacerbate the situation. Chamnong emphasized the necessity for stricter measures, proposing additional security checkpoints and rest areas for tired drivers and travelers.
During the ‘seven dangerous days’ from December 29 to January 4 last year, there were 2,440 road accidents resulting in 317 deaths and 2,437 injuries. The Public Health Ministry highlighted drunk driving as the second major cause, accounting for 25.49% of these accidents.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed concern about potential accidents during this year’s ‘seven dangerous days’ and urged motorists to avoid drunk driving. He stressed the importance of safety measures for the holidaymakers’ safe return home.
Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul launched a road safety operation center to reduce accidents during the New Year holiday, aiming to implement preventive measures and ensure safer travel.
