With the fervor of the season upon us, police chief Pol General Torsak Sukvimol has transformed into an enforcer of cheer—and sobriety. As Wednesday’s announcement reverberated through the streets, it was clear: the nation’s roads shall brook no drunken revelry under his watchful gaze. The message was delivered with all the gravity and dignity befitting his station: Authorities stationed at every nook and cranny of Thailand’s roadways have been put on high alert to curb the sloshed motorists daring to turn the ignition after a tipple.
Now picture this, dear commuters wrangling the festive frenzy: Torsak, with his relentless devotion to public safety, cautioning with almost paternal care, beseeching one and all to steer clear of the wheel when intoxicated. Imagine the stern yet concerned visage as he advises a thorough check for vehicular health, before embarking on a journey. The invisible capes of vigilance flutter behind them all as these guardians of the tarmac ready their breathalyzers.
Indeed, the legal perimeters have been well drawn—the spectral lines on which young drivers under 20, buoyant with a fledgling licence or those guiding special vehicles, must tread lightly. A mere 20 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood could see their driving dreams dashed. Those seasoned in years or possessing the coveted five-year driving papers have it no easier; a mere 50mg/100ml is all it takes to breach the boundary of legality.
Let’s not mince words here: to be found drunken at the helm could see your pocket withered by up to 120,000 baht, six years of freedom snatched away, and your driving privileges turned to dust. Should tragedy strike and a death occur by your inebriated hand, brace for the thunderbolt of justice—200,000 baht and a decade behind bars.
In the midst of festive mirth, Torsak’s clarion call reverberates further, encompassing the battles against drugs and the plague of gun violence, significantly during the New Year hiatus stretching from December 29 to the first blush of 2024.
The Interior Ministry, spearheaded by the vigilant Anutin Charnvirakul, mirrors this commitment to merriment without misery. An operational centre has been conjured into being, a hub from which the strategic fight against holiday accidents is waged. This nexus of safety works tirelessly with a network of agencies, tightening the grip of law enforcement and unfurling the banners of health services.
In a heartwarming twist, Anutin envisages the New Year’s revelries as not just a time of joy, but an era of “happiness and warmth.” A vision of unity where the roads become ribbons that tie families together as they traverse the distance to share in the communal embrace of warmth and safety.
Yet, the specter of the past looms with doleful stats—a staggering 8,923 mishaps clouded the year that was, with the specter of intoxication casting a long, dark shadow over nearly 96% of these incidents. Despite the chill of such numbers, the guardians of the road stand firmer, the resolve strengthened by reflection on these somber figures.
As we bask in the glow of festivities, let’s take a collective breath—one of responsibility, one of care, and one of gratitude for those who keep the wheels of safety turning, ensuring our return to hearts waiting with baited joy in homes warm with expectation and New Year’s cheer.
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