'NO BOOZE ban for Songkran' was greeted as good news by Phuket's tourism industry today.

But the pressure will now go on police to minimise the number of traffic deaths and mishaps between April 12-15..

Four people died on Phuket in Songkran 2008 and three the year before.

This year, with a proposal to ban alcohol for the three-day festival, Songkran was seen as a test of strength between Public Health and Tourism and Sport.

Planning the police part in this year's death and mishap prevention campaign will be among the first duties of Phuket's new police chief, Colonel Phigud Tuntiphong, who takes charge once the official papers are processed.

Prevention through awareness and a high level of checkpoints has reduced Phuket's Songkran road toll in recent years.

Deputy Public Health Minister, Manit Noparmornbodee, told Phuketwan today the decision was made by yesterday the National Committee for Alcohol Consumption Control.

Of 10 ministries represented on the committee, only Public Health and Justice voted for the ban, he said.

''We have to respect that decision,'' he said. ''This year we will be trying to minimise deaths.''

The plan is now to try to outlaw drinking in the back of pickups and among pillion passengers on motorcycles, he said.

Increased checkpoints were needed across the country, especially on local roads, he said.

More than 410 people died on Thailand's roads over the three day Songkran festival last year.

On Phuket, Promchote Traivate of the Tourism and Sport Ministry said the verdict was good for the tourist industry.

But he worried about the safety of drivers and their passengers if drinking was permitted.

''People should cut their drinking anyway,'' he said. ''If people must drink, they should drink within sensible limits.''

Teenagers should refrain from alcohol and celebrate the festival in the traditional fashion. ''People can still have a lot of fun without drinking,'' he said.

Police Chief Major General Apirak Hongthong told Phuketwan that Phuket is a tourism island, so enjoying their holidays was important in a severe economic downturn.

''Businesses need some sympathy,'' he said. ''Police will do their best to prevent mishaps on the roads as usual.''

The committee yesterday decided to ban alcohol on four days this year: May 8, Visakha Bucha Day; July 7 Asarnha Bucha Day, July 8, Buddhist Lent Day and Makkha Bucha Day in February next year.

A Songkran ban is likely to be proposed again next year.