(KPL) Road Safety Week 2026 was officially launched on April 4 at Patuxay Park, under the theme “Drink Responsibly, Don’t Drive,” bringing together senior government officials, private sector representatives, and students.

The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith, Minister of Public Works and Transport Leklay Sivilay, and Vientiane Mayor Sililatthongsing Thongpheng.

Speaking at the ceremony, Leklay Sivilay highlighted the urgent need to address road safety, noting that traffic accidents continue to cause significant loss of life, property, and human resources nationwide. He identified drunk driving and speeding as the leading causes of accidents, warning that alcohol impairs judgment and can turn vehicles into deadly hazards.

The campaign aligns with Laos’ National Road Safety Strategy 2021–2030, with a key target of reducing road fatalities and serious injuries by 50 percent by 2030. Authorities are also aiming to encourage broader public participation, promote behavioral change, and establish road safety as a social norm.

“Your life and the lives of others are worth more than a single glass of alcohol,” the minister stressed.

Officials called on drivers to strictly follow traffic laws and avoid driving after consuming alcohol, urging the use of public transport or designated drivers as safer alternatives.

The launch featured a safety caravan traveling through major roads in Vientiane, including 23 Singha Road, Nongbone Road, the 450th Anniversary Roundabout, Kaysone Phomvihane Road, and Lane Xang Avenue. Additional activities included public education sessions on traffic regulations and first aid demonstrations for emergency response.

The initiative reflects the government’s continued commitment to improving road safety and protecting lives, with a strong emphasis on shared responsibility across all sectors of society.

KPL