Thailand pledges to ensure tourist safety during Songkran, world's biggest water fight

By VNA April 14, 2025 | 04:45 pm PT

Revelers play with water as they celebrate the Songkran holiday, which marks the Thai New Year, in Bangkok, Thailand, April 12, 2025. Photo by Reuters

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of Thailand has launched a nationwide safety and environmental protection initiative for tourists, particularly in coastal areas on islands and in urban forests, on the occasion of the extended Songkran holiday from April 12-16.

Following the ministry's directive, 39 support and safety centers have been set up along the country's coastlines, aiming to ensure tourist safety and encourage the public to protect marine ecosystems by avoiding littering, refraining from feeding or touching rare marine animals, and respecting natural habitats.

Pinsak Suraswadi, director-general of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR), said 544 officers equipped with 58 vehicles and 21 boats will assist tourists. The teams will focus on accident prevention both on land and at sea, with strict enforcement of safety regulations for boat operators.

The Social Security Office (SSO) has advised Social Security Fund (SSF) subscribers to carry their ID cards while traveling during Songkran to ensure access to emergency medical care under the Universal Coverage for Emergency Patients (UCEP) program.

SSO Secretary-General Marasri Jairangsee said SSF members who experience emergency illnesses or accidents can receive care at any nearby hospital without upfront payment. They only need to present their national ID card and notify their registered primary hospital within 72 hours. Migrant workers covered by the social security scheme are also eligible for UCEP services.

At least 59 people died and 458 others were injured in road accidents during the first two days of Songkran, dubbed as the world's biggest water fight, which began on April 11.

Thailand, the second largest economy in Southeast Asia, welcomed 9.5 million foreign visitors in the first three months of 2025, marking a modest year-on-year increase of 1.91%, as safety concerns and the impact of the Myanmar earthquake weighed on tourism.