A deadly train accident in Thailand’s Nakhon Ratchasima killed 22 people after a construction crane collapsed onto a moving passenger train. Rescue and probe ongoing.
Bangkok: A tragic accident took place on Wednesday morning in Thailand’s northeastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima, where at least 22 people lost their lives and more than 30 others were injured. The incident happened when a construction crane collapsed onto a moving passenger train, causing it to derail and catch fire.
The accident occurred in the Sikhio district, about 230 km (143 miles) northeast of Bangkok. Following the incident, Thai authorities launched an urgent investigation.
Incident Details
The crash happened between 8:30 and 9:00 AM local time. A large crane from a nearby construction site reportedly fell directly onto one of the coaches of Train No. 21, a regular passenger train traveling from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani in northeastern Thailand.
Due to the impact, several train coaches derailed, and a fire broke out soon after. Many passengers became trapped inside the damaged and burning compartments. Rescue teams worked for several hours to pull survivors out of the twisted metal.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
Local police chief Thatchapon Chinnawong confirmed the updated figures, stating that 22 people were killed and more than 30 were injured. Earlier reports mentioned fewer deaths, ranging from 4 to 12, but the numbers increased as rescue work continued.
Different reports place the number of injured between 30 and 55 people. Many victims suffered serious injuries, including burns, broken bones, and crush injuries. Authorities sent multiple ambulances, fire engines, and heavy rescue vehicles to the remote location. Rescue teams rushed the injured to hospitals in Nakhon Ratchasima and nearby areas.
Videos and photos shared on social media and news platforms show derailed train coaches on fire, with thick black smoke rising from the scene.
Official Response and Investigation
Thailand’s Transport Ministry has ordered a full investigation into the cause of the crane collapse. Officials are checking whether the accident resulted from structural failure, human error, or poor safety measures.
The State Railway of Thailand confirmed the derailment and fire and said that emergency procedures were activated immediately. Rescue operations are still ongoing, and authorities are working closely with medical teams to treat the injured.
The construction site where the crane fell is reportedly part of a larger infrastructure project. Some local media reports suggest possible links to China-backed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects, but officials have not confirmed this information.
Broader Context
This incident ranks among the deadliest railway accidents in Thailand in recent years. It has raised serious concerns about safety at construction sites located near railway tracks. The tragedy also highlights the challenges Thailand faces in maintaining safety standards while rapidly expanding its infrastructure.
As rescue efforts continue and officials work to confirm the final death toll, the country mourns the victims. Authorities have asked the public to stay away from the area and rely only on official updates for accurate information.
More details are expected as the investigation moves forward.
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