Keep a lid on Songkran

The Songkran Festival officially begins today. Unlike previous years, the water splashing activities especially in Bangkok will take place in regulated calmness thanks to a series of state orders that are driven by the need to promote road safety and curb traffic-related fatalities.

The latest order, published in the Royal Gazette on April 11, prohibits so-called water splashing trucks from entering main streets across the capital from noon to midnight, starting today until Saturday -- the prime period of the water splashing festival. The ban covers more than 60 streets in Bangkok and Thon Buri, including those in city centres which serve as popular Songkran venues such as Silom, Ratchaprasong and Khao San. Loud music and dancing on trucks is also forbidden.

It's the first time the state has made a serious attempt to limit Songkran activities. When the country was hit by drought last year, the government asked for cooperation from revellers to avoid wasting too much water, but there was no change. As in previous years, Songkran last year saw revellers rejoicing excessively as trucks carrying people and water just stopped on the main roads, causing heavy traffic.

But this year it will be different as intended by the government. Some observers relate this year's ban to security concerns given discord by the Barisan Revolusi National (BRN) in the restive southern region. But in effect, the ban will make Thai and foreign revellers realise that they will have to celebrate the popular festival in a more acceptable manner. There should be no more excessive fun and abuse of old traditions which in the old days were more meaningful with such beautiful activities including merit making, the sprinkling of scented water on Buddha images and senior relatives. In the old days, people recognised Songkran as the new year in the lunar calendar.

Some revellers, especially youngsters, may be upset with the restrictions, but it's necessary that we put them in place. Apart from concerns over public safety, restrictions must be observed given the country is still in a mourning period. Earlier, the government made it known that it wanted toned-down celebrations, just like what we had in the most recent new year holiday.

The latest order follows some safety measures that were issued in line with Section 44 of the interim charter, such as seat belt use in public and private vehicles. However, a public outcry, especially on the regulations involving pickup trucks that came out without a grace period and a sufficient PR campaign, forced the government to make an abrupt U-turn.

A major flaw of the April 11 order is the fact it was issued in haste, just like the seat belt regulation, and that may cause confusion which will be a problem when it comes to enforcement. For this reason, authorities must enforce the regulations in a careful manner, and deal with frustrated revellers with understanding.

After all, instead of just putting in place the restrictions, the state should have encouraged each community to set up a designated Songkran venue so revellers can still have a good time, without causing trouble or a nuisance to others.

Such designated venues, which should include traditional sites like temple grounds, will make it a lot easier for authorities to regulate activities.

And Songkran can be a good time for all.