BANGKOK, Thailand – Minister of Public Health Somsak Thepsuthin has announced four key measures to regulate alcohol consumption and mitigate alcohol-related road accidents during the upcoming New Year 2025 celebrations. Approved by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee, the measures include integrated enforcement strategies, public awareness campaigns, community-level risk prevention initiatives, and strict enforcement of existing laws. The steps address the strong link between alcohol consumption and road accidents, which are a leading cause of injuries and fatalities during national holidays.
Recent data highlights the need for action, with 4,777 cases of road injuries and fatalities attributed to drunk driving and 3,370 instances of intoxication identified from 23,902 alcohol screenings at community checkpoints. These figures underscore the critical role of stricter regulations during high-risk periods such as the New Year celebrations.
During the committee meeting, key discussions included a proposal by the State Railway of Thailand to lift the alcohol ban at railway stations and on trains and recent approval given to the Thai Hotels Association for the sale and consumption of alcohol within hotel guest rooms. Legislative amendments to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act of 2008 are also being reviewed by the Subcommittee on Legislative Drafting and Revision.
The measures seek to reduce alcohol-related risks and improve safety, protecting both motorists and the general public during the festive season. (NNT)
