At least eight people were killed and 32 others injured in Thailand's capital after a freight train struck a bus at a rail crossing in Bangkok, rescue officials and a deputy transport minister said.
Firefighters and rescue crews were dispatched as flames engulfed the bus and nearby vehicles close to the airport rail link’s Makkasan station, officials said, adding that the collision also involved cars and motorcycles. The cause of the accident was under investigation.
This tragic incident highlights ongoing safety concerns at rail crossings in densely populated urban areas. Authorities are expected to review crossing protocols and infrastructure to prevent future occurrences.
The collision occurred during peak hours, leading to significant disruption in the area. Emergency services worked swiftly to extinguish the fire and transport the injured to nearby hospitals. The death toll may rise as some victims remain critically injured.
Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted. The train operator and local police are cooperating to determine whether human error, mechanical failure, or inadequate safety measures contributed to the crash.
