At least 22 people are dead and over 30 injured following a crane collapse at a railway construction site in northern Thailand on Wednesday. The accident occurred early Wednesday morning in Nakhon Ratchasima province, northeast of Bangkok.
According to initial reports, the crane collapsed onto a passenger train, causing it to derail. A fire reportedly broke out following the derailment. Images from the scene depict rescue teams working amidst the wreckage, with smoke rising from the damaged train.
The train was en route from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani province. Authorities have confirmed that 195 passengers were aboard the train at the time of the incident. Identification of the victims is currently underway.
The crane was being used in a $5.4 billion project to construct a high-speed rail network in Thailand. This project, supported by Beijing, aims to connect Bangkok to Kunming, China, via Laos by 2028 as part of the Belt and Road Initiative.
Accidents at factories and construction sites are unfortunately common in Thailand. Lax enforcement of safety regulations often leads to tragic incidents and significant loss of life. This latest event underscores the urgent need for improved safety protocols and stricter oversight in major construction projects.
The investigation into the cause of the crane collapse is ongoing. Authorities have pledged a thorough review of safety procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
