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PUBLISHED : 27 Mar 2026 at 05:08
The Ministry of Transport has unveiled its comprehensive plan to manage traffic and ensure safety during the upcoming Songkran festival, with an estimated 26.54 million vehicles travelling across the country between April 10–19.
Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said on Thursday that there should be a change in how people travel and the cost of transportation due to soaring global energy costs as a result of the US-Israel war with Iran.
A decline in tourist numbers is expected, with Thais making fewer trips to their home provinces as they adjust their long-distance travel plans to shorter ones, he said, adding more people will shift to using public transport.
However, the ministry expects 26.54 million vehicles to travel across the country from April 10-19, he added, breaking the number down to 10.65 million on main roads and motorways and 15.89 million on motorways.
About 18.58 million travellers will use public transportation, he said. Of that total, 11.5 million will be in Bangkok and 3.45 million spread across the provinces, an increase of 10% and 14% from last year, respectively.
Mr Phiphat also said the ministry has launched the plan “Smart Travel Songkran 2569”, a seven-point plan for traffic management.
This includes accident prevention, which covers the Department of Land Transportation’s free engine check-ups, in collaboration with its 29 private alliances, and 219 rest areas for drivers.
The plan also includes the vocational student volunteers’ programme for emergency maintenance in 150 locations across the country.
An online traffic alert system through the ministry-run application will be available, as will its 1356 hotline and online information on road diversions and rest areas.
Traffic laws will be strictly observed to ensure road safety, including alcohol and substance tests. Road maintenance and construction work will be temporarily suspended for safety reasons, with medical and rescue staff networks on stand-by to provide assistance.
Mr Phiphat said the ministry had waived toll fees on some motorways between April 10 and 19, with the exact dates varying by route.
The minister said authorities will make sure no passengers are left stranded. They will also strictly control fares to avoid price gouging and ensure sufficient fuel supply for both departures from Bangkok and return trips from provinces across all regions, he noted.
Mr Phiphat urged the public to plan their journeys in advance and consider the efficient and economical use of fuel and other forms of energy.
