According to a report released by Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation on April 17, a total of 1,242 traffic accidents occurred during the seven-day Songkran Festival (April 10-16), resulting in 1,200 injuries and 242 deaths.

Thai authorities stated that although the Songkran Festival has ended, many people continue to travel or remain on vacation. It is necessary to continuously strengthen traffic safety management and awareness campaigns across all regions, strictly crack down on violations such as drunk driving and speeding, and properly handle assistance and follow-up care for accident victims and their families.

Relevant departments also call on the public to consciously abide by traffic rules and develop good driving habits, including wearing helmets, fastening seat belts, not driving under the influence, not speeding, and practicing courteous driving, to collectively reduce the casualties and social losses caused by traffic accidents.

Additionally, the Chinese Embassy in Thailand has recently issued travel precautions for the Songkran Festival period for those visiting Thailand.

Thoroughly prepare before your trip. Before departure, ensure your passport is valid for more than six months and shows no significant damage. Prepare your hotel booking confirmation in Thailand, return flight tickets, and cash for possible inspection. Fill out the arrival card truthfully upon entry and cooperate with customs checks. If carrying a drone, report it to the Thai government in advance. Do not carry or use e-cigarettes and related products. Purchase overseas travel insurance in advance for peace of mind.

Pay strict attention to traffic safety. In Thailand, traffic drives on the left side of the road. Cars and motorcycles share the road, so observe carefully when crossing streets and avoid weaving through traffic. Try to avoid using motorcycle taxis, tuk-tuks, or self-driving. If driving is necessary, ensure you hold a valid international driving permit or a Thai local license. For chartered or rental vehicles, use reputable companies and sign a contract. Always wear your seatbelt on tour buses. Do not drive under the influence of alcohol, speed, or ride in a vehicle with a drunk driver.

Attach great importance to water safety. When participating in water activities (such as snorkeling, swimming, etc.), strictly follow professional guidance, wear a life jacket in advance, familiarize yourself with equipment usage and emergency procedures, go with companions, and act within your capabilities. It is prohibited to catch or feed marine life, pick up or step on coral, and to smoke or discard cigarette butts, plastic products, and other garbage outside designated beach areas. Pay attention to red flag warnings on beaches; entering the water is strictly prohibited when red flags are raised. Do not enter hotel swimming pools during non-operating hours. Take good care of elderly companions and children.

Participate in water-splashing activities civilly. When participating in water-splashing celebrations, do not splash water at special groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, infants, or police officers on duty, and do not splash water outside designated areas. According to Thai regulations, it is strictly prohibited to use unsanitary water sources, hot water, or ice for splashing, and high-pressure water guns should not be used. Take waterproof measures for your phone and documents. Be mindful of personal and property safety in crowded places and maintain heightened awareness. Keep communication lines open with family and friends during your travels.

Furthermore, as temperatures are high in Thailand during the Songkran Festival, please take precautions against heatstroke. Consider carrying electrolyte-containing drinks and stay hydrated. If symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or heatstroke occur, immediately move to a shaded area to cool down and seek medical help if necessary.

Relevant agency contact numbers:

Thai Police: 191

Thai Emergency Services: 1669

Thai Tourist Police Hotline: 1155 (Chinese language service available)

Chinese Embassy in Thailand Consular Protection: 02-245-7010

Chinese Consulate General in Chiang Mai Consular Protection: 081-882-3283

Chinese Consulate General in Songkhla Consular Protection: 081-766-5560

Chinese Consulate General in Khon Kaen

Songkran Festival

The Songkran Festival is Thailand’s traditional New Year celebration, observed annually from April 13th to 15th. Rooted in Buddhist and Hindu traditions, it marks the sun’s transition into the Aries zodiac and was historically a time for ritual cleansing, paying respect to elders, and visiting temples. Today, it is famously known for its nationwide water fights, symbolizing the washing away of misfortune and welcoming the new year with purity and joy.

Chinese Embassy in Thailand

The Chinese Embassy in Thailand, located in Bangkok, serves as the primary diplomatic mission representing the People’s Republic of China in the Kingdom of Thailand. It was established following the formal diplomatic recognition between the two countries in 1975, marking a significant milestone in their long-standing historical ties. The embassy plays a crucial role in fostering bilateral relations, facilitating trade, and providing consular services to Chinese citizens in Thailand.

Thai Police

The Royal Thai Police is a national law enforcement agency established in 1860 under King Rama IV, modernizing from older systems of local enforcement. It operates under the Ministry of Interior and is responsible for maintaining order and security throughout the kingdom. The force has a complex history, including periods of significant political influence, and continues to play a central role in Thai public life and administration.

Thai Emergency Services

“Thai Emergency Services” refers to the coordinated public safety and medical response system in Thailand, most famously represented by its **Por Tek Tung Foundation** and the **Ruam Katanyu Foundation**. These are historically Buddhist charitable organizations, originating in the early 20th century, that provide free emergency medical aid, accident rescue, and disaster relief, operating alongside the official government services. They are deeply embedded in Thai culture, funded by public donations, and are often the first responders at scenes across the country.

Thai Tourist Police

The Tourist Police is a specialized division of the Royal Thai Police, established in 1982 to enhance safety and assist international visitors. They provide services like reporting crimes, offering travel advice, and handling emergencies, operating from dedicated tourist-friendly booths and a 24-hour national hotline (1155). Their formation and continued presence reflect Thailand’s commitment to protecting its vital tourism industry and ensuring a positive experience for travelers.

Chinese Consulate General in Chiang Mai

The Chinese Consulate General in Chiang Mai is a diplomatic mission established to serve Chinese citizens and promote bilateral relations in northern Thailand. It was officially opened in 2015, reflecting the growing economic, cultural, and tourism ties between China and the Chiang Mai region. The consulate facilitates services like visa processing and assists in fostering cooperation between the two areas.

Chinese Consulate General in Songkhla

The Chinese Consulate General in Songkhla, Thailand, was originally established in 1934, making it one of the earliest Chinese diplomatic missions in Southeast Asia. It was closed in 1946 but reopened in 1994, reflecting the enduring and evolving diplomatic ties between China and Thailand. Today, it serves as a key diplomatic hub for southern Thailand, facilitating consular services and promoting bilateral exchanges.

Chinese Consulate General in Khon Kaen

The Chinese Consulate General in Khon Kaen, Thailand, was officially opened in 2012, reflecting the deepening economic and cultural ties between China and the rapidly developing northeastern region of Isan. It serves as a diplomatic mission to facilitate consular services, promote bilateral trade, and strengthen people-to-people exchanges. Its establishment underscores China’s strategic engagement with a key area of Thailand known for its significant ethnic Chinese community and growing infrastructure links.