Laos' Ministry of Public Security will strengthen measures to ensure road safety and a peaceful, joyful celebration during the Lao New Year 2025.

To enforce safety, the ministry will deploy over 1,170 traffic police officers to 143 checkpoints across Lao capital Vientiane, as well as provincial, district, and urban roads, to monitor and ensure safety throughout the celebration, head of the ministry's Traffic Police Department Khamsone Sidavong told a press conference on Friday.

The traffic police will focus on speed checks, breathalyzer tests for alcohol consumption, and ensuring drivers and passengers wear helmets.

Khamsone urged all drivers to strictly adhere to traffic rules, follow local notices, and avoid drinking and driving to help prevent accidents.

During the Lao New Year 2024 celebration from April 11 to 17, there were 316 accidents, 567 vehicles damaged, 594 people injured, and 33 fatalities. The main causes of these accidents were speeding and drunk driving. Lao authorities aim to reduce accidents and minimize damage to health, life, and property.