Nakhon Ratchasima/Korat –
A tragic accident struck Thailand’s northeastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima on Wednesday morning (January 14th) when a construction crane collapsed onto a passenger train, killing at least 22 people and injuring at least 64 others.
The major incident occurred at approximately 9:05 a.m. in the Si Khio District, near Ban Thanon Kot. The crane, part of an ongoing high-speed rail project, fell across the tracks just as a passenger train bound from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani was approaching at high speed. The train collided with the crane obstruction, causing several carriages to derail and ignite in flames.
Rescue teams from multiple units, including Hook 31 Nakhon Ratchasima, Phromtham Si Khio, Sawang Wicha Pak Chong, and Sung Noen Rescue, rushed to the scene. Using hydraulic cutters, they worked to free trapped passengers from the wreckage. The injured were transported to Si Khio Hospital, Sung Noen Hospital, and Maharaj Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital for urgent treatment.
Authorities confirmed that 22 passengers died at the scene, while more than 55 others sustained injuries ranging from minor to severe. Several victims were trapped inside the mangled train cars before being rescued. A total of 190 people were estimated to have been on the train.
Initial findings suggest the crane was lifting a section of the high-speed rail bridge when it toppled onto the tracks. The passenger train, unable to stop in time, slammed into the crane. The force of the collision caused the crane to collapse further, crushing the train and triggering the derailment.
Officials are continuing their investigation to determine whether negligence, equipment failure, or procedural lapses contributed to the collapse.
This is a developing story.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
