Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith said the measure calls for improvement of roads and facilities in the seven days before the festival, mobilising officials on site for 24 hours each day during the seven days of festival, and to ensuring the public travels back safely during the seven days after the festival.

He said this year, for the first time, motorists will be asked to put their headlights on, even during daytime, to help reduce road accidents by 30 per cent, according to research.

He said the Ministry of Transport has ordered its affiliated agencies such as the Department of Highways, and the Department of Rural Roads to ensure good road conditions and traffic facilities to assist traffic during the Songkran holidays.