Deadly Crane Collapse Derails Passenger Train in Northeastern Thailand
NAKHON RATCHASIMA, Thailand — A catastrophic accident unfolded Wednesday when a construction crane collapsed onto a moving passenger train traveling from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani, resulting in at least 22 deaths and 64 injuries, officials confirmed. The incident occurred in Nakhon Ratchasima province, a key transportation hub in northeastern Thailand, as the train was en route with nearly 200 passengers on board.
The crane struck the train while it was in motion, causing several coaches to derail and ignite a fire. The province’s Public Relations Department reported that emergency teams quickly brought the blaze under control, but rescue operations faced challenges due to the instability of the crane, which shifted and forced responders to temporarily pull back from the wreckage. Authorities continue to search for passengers believed to be trapped inside the damaged carriages.
Transport Minister Piphat Ratchakitprakan stated that 195 people were aboard the train at the time of the accident and confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crane’s collapse. “Nineteen bodies have been recovered so far, but some remain inside the train cars where access is currently unsafe,” the minister said.
The State Railway of Thailand, which operates the train service, has been coordinating with local emergency services to manage the aftermath and provide medical care to the injured. The incident has raised concerns about construction safety protocols near active railway lines, prompting calls for stricter oversight.
Thailand’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has dispatched additional resources to assist in the rescue and recovery efforts. The agency’s official website provides ongoing updates on the situation and safety advisories for travelers in the region.
Rail accidents in Thailand, while relatively rare, have historically prompted government reviews of infrastructure safety standards. This latest tragedy underscores the risks posed by construction activities adjacent to critical transportation corridors.
Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area to facilitate emergency operations and have set up a hotline for families seeking information about passengers. The Ministry of Transport has pledged full transparency as the investigation proceeds.
For more information on railway safety and emergency protocols, visit the State Railway of Thailand and the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. Updates on transportation safety regulations can also be found through the Ministry of Transport. The international community and neighboring countries have expressed condolences and offered assistance as Thailand copes with this tragic event.
As rescue teams continue their work, officials emphasize the importance of rigorous safety measures to prevent future incidents and protect the lives of passengers and workers alike.
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