Songkran celebrations in Bangkok attracted huge international crowds, with over 360,000 participants flocking to Silom and Khao San roads during the first two days of the festival, according to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA).
On April 12th and 13th, Silom Road was bustling with 165,239 attendees from noon until 10 PM, while Khao San Road hosted 197,314 celebrants, with festivities extending from midday until midnight.
During a daily update at the BMA’s command center on Monday, Virat Manassanitwong, the BMA’s deputy permanent secretary, ordered the Office of Traffic and Transport to ensure that all CCTV cameras in the areas were operational.
He expressed gratitude to the personnel from all 50 district offices and those at the command center for their round-the-clock efforts to support the Songkran festival-goers.
Pol Gen Adit Ngamjitsuksri, an adviser to Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, urged district officials to monitor vendors to prevent them from obstructing pedestrian walkways and emergency exits, which are crucial for safety during emergencies.
The BMA reported 11 traffic accidents from April 11th to 13th, resulting in 10 fatalities and four injuries.
Additionally, there were five building fires in the same timeframe, resulting in one death and eight injuries.
Meanwhile, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) noted that the surge of passengers at Krungthep Aphiwat Central Terminal and Hua Lamphong Station had decreased since the peak travel days from April 10th to 13th.
During that four-day period, the railways served more than 339,000 passengers, with the southern line accommodating the highest number at 120,954.
The SRT has introduced additional services on both the northern and southern lines to accommodate the increased demand.
Extra railway personnel and police officers have been assigned to stations and trains to enhance security and ensure the safety of passengers at all times.
Travelers are advised to adhere to safety guidelines, refrain from drinking and smoking on trains, and report any suspicious activities to train staff.
