A major transport accident in Bangkok has left at least eight people dead and more than 35 injured following a collision between a freight train and a passenger bus near the Makkasan Airport Rail Link Station on Saturday afternoon.
Authorities said emergency services were alerted to the incident at approximately 3:42 PM after reports of a fire involving an air-conditioned bus operating on Route 206, which runs between Kasetsart University and Mega Bangna. Firefighters and rescue teams were immediately dispatched to the scene on Asoke–Din Daeng Road in Huai Khwang district.
Initial investigations indicated that the freight train collided with both the passenger bus and a motorcycle, triggering a fire after the impact.
Bus Reportedly Trapped on Railway Crossing
According to Mr. Siripong Angsakulkiat, Deputy Transport Minister of Thailand, preliminary findings suggest the bus became stuck on the railway tracks due to severe traffic congestion, preventing the automatic crossing barrier from fully lowering.
The incoming cargo train, carrying heavy container units, was reportedly unable to stop in time before striking the vehicle.
Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, stated that the train had been traveling from Chachoengsao toward Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal when the collision occurred.
The force of the impact dragged the bus along the tracks before flames engulfed the vehicle, creating a chaotic scene as emergency responders worked to evacuate victims and transport the injured to nearby hospitals.
Government Orders Full Investigation
Authorities are continuing to gather evidence as police investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Mr. Siripong stated that officials will review all available evidence to determine legal responsibility and identify any potential safety failures linked to the crossing system or traffic conditions.
Meanwhile, Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Government Spokesperson, confirmed that Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister of Thailand, has been briefed on the accident and instructed relevant agencies to urgently assist those injured and support the families of the victims.
Government agencies have also been directed to conduct a thorough investigation into the deadly collision.
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