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154 killed during first four days of Songkran in Thailand

Sandy Verma | April 15, 2026 11:24 AM CST

Revelers play with water as they celebrate the Songkran holiday, which marks the Thai New Year, in Bangkok, Thailand, April 12, 2026. Photo by Reuters

A total of 154 people were killed in road accidents during the first four days of the Songkran holiday, known as the world’s biggest water fighting festival, with Bangkok having the highest death toll.

From April 10 to 13, a total of 755 traffic accidents were recorded, leaving 705 people injured, the Bangkok Post reported.

Bangkok recorded the highest number of fatalities at 12.

Speeding was blamed for the most accidents, followed by drink driving, Nation Thailand reported.

Authorities in Bangkok have been instructed to strictly enforce laws, particularly in Songkran water-play zones and tourist areas.

Measures to curb drink-driving have also been intensified, including tighter control over alcohol sales, a complete ban on selling alcohol to individuals under 20, and stricter scrutiny in cases where underage drink-driving results in injury or death, Nation Thailand reported.

In such instances, investigations will be expanded to include vendors, individuals who facilitated underage drinking, and parents or guardians, in accordance with relevant laws.

The Songkran 2026 celebrations officially began on Monday but a surge of tourists had already started flocking to hotspots and locals traveling home as early as April 10.

Traditionally, the water fighting festival lasts nearly a week and draws tourists from across the world.

Despite its popularity, Songkran was dubbed the “seven dangerous days” by authorities a decade or so ago to highlight the dangers on the roads during its celebration.

In 2025, Songkran road accidents claimed 253 lives.