On Tuesday, October 1, a devastating accident in Thailand resulted in the deaths of at least 25 people. This included 22 students and three teachers.
The bus was transporting 38 students and six teachers on a field trip when it burst into flames after a tire exploded. The incident occurred along a highway in Pathum Thani province, just north of Bangkok.
Details of the Incident
Witnesses reported that the fire spread rapidly after the bus crashed into a concrete barrier. Many passengers could not escape due to the intense flames engulfing the vehicle.
Rescue workers arrived to find the bus consumed by fire, with thick black smoke filling the air. Tragically, 20 of those who died were primary school pupils, while two were high school students.
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Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit confirmed that 16 students and three teachers suffered injuries. They were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Furthermore, the minister stated that authorities are investigating the cause of this horrific accident.
Initial investigations suggest that a tire burst may have sparked the fire. Acting national police chief Pol Lt Gen Kittirat Phunphet indicated that a spark from the exploded tire likely ignited the compressed natural gas cylinder powering the bus.
Meanwhile, the driver, identified as Samarn Chankut, fled the scene immediately after the accident. Authorities have since issued an arrest warrant for him.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed her heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families via social media.
She assured that the government would cover medical expenses for those injured and provide compensation to families who lost loved ones in this tragedy.
As a mother, I want to convey my deepest condolences to the families of those injured and those who have perished
Paetongtarn Shinawatra
Reaction From the Public
This incident has raised serious concerns about road safety in Thailand, especially regarding long-distance travel for students.
The country has one of the highest rates of traffic accidents globally, with approximately 20,000 fatalities each year according to World Health Organization statistics.
Consequently, this tragedy has sparked discussions about improving safety measures for vehicles used in transporting children.
As investigations continue into this devastating incident, many hope it will lead to stricter regulations regarding vehicle safety standards and better oversight of transportation companies.
