Songkran festival kicks off in Thailand
Thailand officially kicked off its traditional New Year or Songkran holiday on April 13.
Songkran, one of the biggest festivals in Thailand, takes place from April 13-15. (Photo: VNA)Bangkok (VNA) –
Thailand officially kicked off its traditional New Year or Songkran holiday on
April 13.
On the morning of April 13, people
gathered across Bangkok to offer alms to 191 monks, with the city full of
visitors.
As Thailand is in a year
of mourning for King Bhumibol Adulyadej
who died in October, the Thai government restricted the use of pick-up trucks carrying
water tanks. Revelers were also advised not to wear skimpy clothing and to
limit their alcohol intake.
Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha called on people to maintain traditional values and preserve their culture and tradition. He also pledged to maintain peace and order across the country during the festival.
Songkhran festival, which finishes on April 15, is a profitable time for Thai tourism. However, many traffic accidents occur during this time. According to the Thailand Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, at least 82 people lost their lives and 630 were injured in traffic accidents from April 12 – 13.-VNA
Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha called on people to maintain traditional values and preserve their culture and tradition. He also pledged to maintain peace and order across the country during the festival.
Songkhran festival, which finishes on April 15, is a profitable time for Thai tourism. However, many traffic accidents occur during this time. According to the Thailand Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, at least 82 people lost their lives and 630 were injured in traffic accidents from April 12 – 13.-VNA
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