A construction crane collapsed onto a moving passenger train in northeastern Thailand, resulting in at least 28 fatalities and injuring 64 others. 

The incident occurred around 9:00 a.m. local time in the Sikhio district of Nakhon Ratchasima province, approximately 230 kilometers northeast of Bangkok. 

The train, Special Express No. 21, was en route from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani with about 195 passengers on board when the crane fell, derailing multiple carriages and causing one to catch fire.

The death toll has fluctuated in real-time reports, with some sources confirming 31 deaths, including 30 at the scene and one during transport to hospital. Others report figures as high as 31 or as low as 22.

Preliminary investigations point to a failure in the crane’s structure while it was being used on the Sino-Thai high-speed railway project, operated by China Railway Engineering Corporation (CREC). 

Thailand’s Ministry of Transport has ordered an immediate probe into the incident, focusing on safety protocols and potential negligence. This tragedy echoes previous construction accidents in the country, raising concerns about oversight in large-scale infrastructure projects.

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) expressed deep condolences to the victims’ families and assured support for those affected. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has directed authorities to provide assistance and prevent future occurrences.

Original article
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