Thailand: Tight security likely due to Songkran celebrations nationwide April 13-17

Event

Thailand will celebrate the annual Songkran festival (Thai New Year) nationwide April 13-17. Celebrations at places of worship are allowed. The central government has banned water splashing due to COVID-19 concerns; Songkran revelers typically throw water indiscriminately at each other and at passersby. Thousands of people have participated in events in past years, though upcoming celebrations may involve lower turnout due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Several localities may enforce stricter measures on top of controls mandated by the central government. Bangkok's local government requires events involving up to 1,000 people to obtain approval from the local district office, while programs with more than 1,000 participants must seek approval from the health department. While the central government has not ordered a travel ban in any province, some local authorities may enforce travel protocols, including requiring arrivals to show evidence that they do not carry COVID-19. Some local authorities may also require larger events to apply for a permit. The central and local governments may adjust the rules at short notice if there is a sudden increase in COVID-19 activity.

Authorities will likely increase security around celebration venues and transport centers before, during, and after the festival to enforce security and health protocols. Transport disruptions are likely, particularly around event sites and transport hubs. Public transport will probably be highly congested, and traffic accidents, particularly alcohol-related incidents, generally increase during Songkran. Officials may increase health checks at event sites and transport centers to enforce COVID-19 rules. Petty crime, like theft and pickpocketing, typically increase 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.

Advice

Confirm all appointments and transport reservations April 13-17. Prepare for increased security and localized disruptions at event sites and transport hubs. Consider limiting road travel before, during, and after the holiday due to safety concerns. Drive defensively, especially on highways. Closely guard valuables in crowded areas. Follow all official instructions and carry proper identification at all times. Heed all official advisories and remain cooperative if stopped by authorities for security and health checks.