The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s alcohol-free Songkran campaign aims to reduce the number of road-accident deaths to fewer than six during the annual festival, Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said at a meeting of the administration’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee on Monday.

Committee members agreed that festival events at 35 locations in 24 districts will be alcohol-free zones this year.

“These zones, which will be announced later, will promote Thai traditions and water splashing activities that are safe for all. Drinking and selling of alcoholic beverages will be strictly prohibited in these areas,” Chadchart said.

“Please avoid bringing alcoholic drinks into these areas, as we aim to make them a family-friendly zone where everyone can enjoy Thai New Year,” he added.

The city will also promote a “drink don’t drive” campaign throughout the festival, which runs from April 13 to April 15, to ensure public safety. Drinking has been identified as the cause of traffic accidents or fights during the festival that result in causalities.

Bangkok recorded 13 deaths from road accidents during last year’s Songkran festival, and this year the aim is to reduce the number to less than half of that number, Chadchart said.

“It will be a difficult task that requires cooperation from all parties,” he said, adding: “This year’s Songkran will be the first time in many years that all Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted, so more people are expected to celebrate.”

Chadchart urged motorists to drive with extra caution during the festival and strictly comply with traffic laws. He stressed that motorbike users, both drivers and passengers, must wear helmets while on their motorbike.