15 April

MYANMAR is celebrating the traditional Thingyan festival, one of the nation’s 12 seasonal festivals. With spirits running high these days, revellers must take care to stay away from drugs which, as we know, have turned into a major problem not just in Myanmar, but across the world.

Also, during the festivities, drivers need to take great care while on the road in order to ensure people’s safety. Drivers must not be under the influence of intoxicants while driving, and they must assume responsibility for the safety of all those travelling with them.

During the festival last year, there were 317 road mishaps, which killed more than 640 people and injured 106. To reduce road accidents during the four-day festival, we must follow the prescribed guidelines.

Vehicle drivers must avoid consuming alcohol or other intoxicating substances.

Everyone must avoid consuming all types of drugs and sexual stimulants, and be on the lookout for potential tempters.

As responsible citizens, it is our duty to report any drug dealing or consumption to the nearest police officers. We must help keep the traditional Thingyan festival clean and safe.

Young people must partake in the festivities in a fun and responsible manner, and avoid intoxication, which can lead to adverse effects.

We wish to urge community elders, leaders, parents, guardians, and pavilion officials to cooperate and maintain vigilance so that the Thingyan Festival concludes peacefully.

Besides, pedestrians need to pay attention to the dangers posed by traffic to avoid unexpected accidents on roads and at pandals.

They must take care to walk on roadside pavements. 

Meanwhile, motorcycle accidents, which accounted for 49 per cent of all traffic accidents in 2018 with 2,376 deaths and 12,985 casualties, must be reduced in this year.

Two-wheeled motorbikes lack any cover and protection against danger.

Oil spills on roads and water can make vehicles overturn. Therefore, everyone must avoid over speeding on bikes, carrying more than one passenger, driving without helmets, driving while drunk, and driving bikes without an exhaust, creating a public nuisance.

Given that an increase in the number of vehicles plying on the road is directly linked to the number of accidents, coupled with the fact that 98.02 per cent of accidents are the result of human error, there is a greater need than ever for road safety and adherence to traffic rules.

Public cooperation is essential to successfully reduce traffic-related mishaps this festival.

GNLM