A school bus erupted in flames near Bangkok, Thailand, killing 23 people and prompting an investigation into potential negligence.
At a Glance
- A school bus carrying 44 passengers caught fire on the outskirts of Bangkok
- 23 people, including 20 children and 3 teachers, were killed in the incident
- The fire reportedly started after a tire burst, causing the bus to crash into a barrier
- Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra promised government support for victims’ families
- Authorities have launched a full investigation into possible negligence by the bus company
Tragic Incident Unfolds Near Bangkok
A devastating fire engulfed a school bus near Bangkok on Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of 23 people, including 20 children and 3 teachers. The bus, carrying 44 passengers from Wat Khao Phraya Sangkharam school in Uthai Thani province, was on a field trip to Ayutthaya and Nonthaburi provinces when the tragedy occurred.
The incident took place near the Zeer Rangsit shopping mall on the outskirts of Bangkok. According to witnesses, the fire started rapidly after a tire burst, causing the bus to crash into a barrier. The natural gas-powered vehicle quickly became engulfed in flames, leaving rescue workers with little time to save many of the passengers.
Rescue Efforts and Aftermath
Firefighters, police, and rescue crews responded promptly to the scene, but the intensity of the fire hampered their efforts. Some students managed to escape by jumping out of windows, while others were not as fortunate. Rescuers were only able to access the bus hours after the fire was extinguished, with most bodies found in the middle and back seats.
“We found 23 bodies inside the bus,” said Trairong Phiwpan, head of the police forensic science office.
In addition to the fatalities, 16 students and 3 teachers were hospitalized. Three young girls were admitted to Rangsit Hospital, with one suffering burns to the face, mouth, and eye. The driver of the bus reportedly survived but fled the scene and has not been located.
Government Response and Investigation
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra offered condolences to the families affected by the tragedy and promised government support for medical expenses and compensation. Emergency personnel and police are on the scene, investigating the cause of the fire and the circumstances that led to such a high number of casualties. “As a mother, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the families,” stated Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
A full investigation is underway to determine if the school bus company was negligent in any way. Authorities are examining whether proper safety measures were in place and if the natural gas system of the vehicle was properly maintained. The incident has raised concerns about road safety in Thailand, which has a high road fatality rate of approximately 20,000 deaths annually, according to the World Health Organization.
BREAKING: A bus carrying young students caught fire near Bangkok with 25 of those on board feared dead, according to officials. https://t.co/xrtxxI9I2F
— The Associated Press (@AP) October 1, 2024
Implications for Thailand’s Transportation Safety
This tragic event highlights the ongoing issues with road safety in Thailand. The high number of annual road fatalities underscores the need for stricter regulations and improved safety measures, particularly for vehicles transporting children. As the investigation continues, it is likely that there will be renewed calls for enhanced safety protocols and more rigorous inspections of school transportation vehicles across the country.
The incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of maintaining and enforcing strict safety standards for all forms of public transportation, especially those carrying vulnerable passengers such as children. As the nation mourns this tragic loss, it is hoped that concrete steps will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure the safety of Thailand’s youngest citizens.