Thailand: Tight security likely due to Songkran celebrations nationwide April 12-16

Thailand will celebrate the annual Songkran festival (Thai New Year) nationwide April 13-15, with festivities occurring April 12-16. The government has declared April 16 a holiday in lieu of April 13, and April 12 a special government holiday. Songkran is often marked by large public parties, where revelers throw water indiscriminately at each other and at passersby, which is potentially dangerous for motorcyclists and motorists. Thousands of people have participated in past years, and designated zones will be available for revelers to engage in water splashing. In Bangkok, the main event venue is Lan Khon Muang, located in Phra Nakhon District in front of City Hall, while the largest celebrations typically occur in the Silom Road and Khao San Road areas. The central government will impose restrictions on the sale of alcohol, high-pressure water guns, powder for smearing, and inappropriate dress during related events.

Authorities will likely increase security around celebration venues, shopping areas, and transport centers before, during, and after the festival as a precaution. Increased congestion is likely at airports, train stations, and on major highways throughout the country April 12-16, as millions of Thais typically travel during the holiday period. Transport disruptions are likely, particularly around event sites and transport hubs. Traffic accidents, particularly alcohol-related incidents, generally increase during Songkran. Petty crimes, like theft and pickpocketing, typically rise during the holiday.

Officials may issue warnings concerning an upsurge in Muslim separatist violence during the holiday in the southern provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla, and Yala, as some locals may view the event as symbolic of Buddhist hegemony in the region. Authorities may implement extremely tight security measures in the provinces as a precaution.