Thailand Moves to End New Year Drink-Driving Crisis

[snoop1130]

 

Thailand braces for a safer new year as the government unveils a comprehensive plan to control alcohol-related accidents during the festive season. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin has revealed a four-pronged strategy by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee to address the rise in drink-fuelled mishaps, a grim aspect of the otherwise joyous holidays across the country.

 

Drink-driving has unfortunately become a significant concern during national festivities in Thailand, often leading to tragic accidents. This new plan is a promising step towards breaking this hazardous pattern and ensuring a safer environment for citizens. As per data, a staggering 4,777 incidents involving injuries and fatalities were directly linked to alcohol consumption. In addition, 3,370 cases of drunk driving were recognized among 23,902 alcohol tests conducted at community checkpoints.

 

The initiative centres on robust enforcement of laws, public awareness campaigns, and grassroots risk prevention strategies. Additionally, it pushes for strict adherence to existing laws. The objective is to sever the lethal coupling between holiday merriment and road disasters that have become all too common.

 

 

Adding to the debates, some contentious propositions are to be discussed. The State Railway of Thailand is advocating the removal of the alcohol ban in railway stations and trains. While the Thai Hotels Association got approval for alcoholic beverages to be served in guest rooms. The Subcommittee on Legislative Drafting and Revision is considering prospective amendments to the 2008 Alcoholic Beverage Control Act.

 

Minister Somsak was unequivocal about the government's goal, affirming: "We aim to create a safer environment for everyone during the new year festivities by implementing these measures."

 

This commitment by the Thai Government is more than a new year's resolution. It is a pledge to protect lives by combating alcohol-induced accidents. It gives hope for a more responsible and safer festive season for all. As the new year approaches, it is not just about new beginnings but also about introducing an era of safety and accountability. So, here's raising a toast to that!

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-11-20

 

 

[smedly]

1 hour ago, snoop1130 said:

Drink-driving has unfortunately become a significant concern during national festivities in Thailand

are they having a laugh, drink driving is a serious problem 365 days a year

[richard_smith237]

21 minutes ago, smedly said:

are they having a laugh, drink driving is a serious problem 365 days a year

 

Indeed....   what kind of antisocial ayhole drinks 10 beers then drives ???

 

Authorities need to come down on this behavior far more harshly than they currently do.

Edited 47 minutes ago by richard_smith237

[richard_smith237]

1 hour ago, snoop1130 said:

In addition, 3,370 cases of drunk driving were recognized among 23,902 alcohol tests conducted at community checkpoints.

 

Only 14% of those stopped and breathalysed at check points blew positive ????...  hmm... 

 

I'm going for...   14% of those who were stopped and breathalysed at check points blew positive met quotas... meanwhile a large proportion were able to circumnavigate official processing with a little lubricance.....

 

 

 

Edited 44 minutes ago by richard_smith237