Bangkok, Thailand – Web Desk: Thailand’s traditional New Year water festival, Songkran, has turned tragic this year, with at least 191 deaths reported in road accidents during the first three days of celebrations.
According to international media reports, the world-famous water fight festival has been overshadowed by a sharp rise in traffic accidents, speeding, and drunk driving incidents, raising serious safety concerns.
Authorities confirmed 951 road accidents and more than 900 injuries so far. On the first day alone, 51 people lost their lives in various incidents.
Officials said speeding accounted for nearly 42% of accidents, while drunk driving contributed to more than 27%. Failure to wear helmets and reckless driving were also major factors.
The “seven dangerous days” period, which coincides with mass travel as millions move from cities like Bangkok to their hometowns, has led to increased road congestion and higher accident rates.
The World Health Organization classifies Thailand among the countries with the highest road fatality rates globally, with an average of 38 deaths per day annually, a figure that spikes during the festival.
Despite being a symbol of spiritual cleansing and renewal, the festival’s growing casualty toll has raised alarm among authorities.
Officials estimate nearly 500,000 international tourists attended the celebrations this year, with revenues exceeding 30 billion baht. However, some foreign tourists have also been detained for disturbing public order.
