Vientiane (VNA) – The Ministry of Public Security of Laos will deploy more than 700traffic police officers to over 100 intersections across the capital Vientianeto ensure road safety during the Lao New Year celebration, Bunpimay festival, inmid-April.
Accordingto head of the traffic police department of Vientiane Sangkhom Phommalat, theTraffic Police Department under the ministry is expected to work with districtpolice in Vientiane to improve road safety and reduce traffic accidents duringthe celebration.
Laoauthorities will focus on raising public awareness on road safety and relatedlaws, ensuring smooth road traffic with less parking offences, and speeding andalcohol control.
Atotal of 342 traffic accidents were reported during last year’s celebration, killing35 people, injuring 589 others and damaging 589 vehicles.
TheBunpimay festival is observed from April 14-16 annually to pray for goodweather, health, abundant harvests and prosperity.
During the celebration, Lao people conduct traditional rituals such as Buddha statue bathing and thread tying./.