CityNews – 7th March 2020, following rumours that Songkran Festival had been cancelled due to the COVID-19 virus, the governor of Chiang Mai came out to say that the traditional festival will be held as usual. He asks the public to wear masks when out in crowded places and to wash hands regularly.
Governor Charoenrit Sanguansat told reporters that following talks with many organisations and working bodies, it was agreed that tourism is such a crucial sector in Chiang Mai that it would be best not to cancel the festival at this time as it would do untold damage and harm to thousands of local businesses. 
Anticipating the annual influx of people returning home to Chiang Mai for the holidays, the governor said it was not realistic to cancel the entire festival. 
He went on to say that various authorities are currently in talks as to how to allow for Songkran to continue without adding risk to the public. He wishes the festival to focus on traditional cultural activities and events.