Rules will be strictly enforced to make water-splashing venues nationwide completely free of alcohol during the Songkran festival next month, officials said on Tuesday.

A complete alcohol ban will be enforced at all Songkran venues for the entire festival period, the alcoholic beverage control committee said.

The official Songkran public holiday lasts from April 13-17 but the “World Songkran Festival” will be staged from April 1-21 to boost tourism.

The alcohol ban will be enforced with special attention paid to ensure that minors cannot access booze and sales elsewhere will not take place outside the permitted hours.

As most Songkran accidents were the result of drunk driving, alcohol-free zones for Songkran revellers will be created in order to maintain public safety and order.

From April 11-17 last year, road accidents caused a total of 4,340 casualties, including 252 deaths, with 502 of the injured and dead reported to be under 20 years old.

Motorists and motorcyclists involved in road accidents during this year's Songkran period will be given breathalyser or blood tests.