Crane Collapse Kills Dozens, Injures Many in Thailand Train Accident

At least 22 people have died and many more were injured after a construction crane collapsed onto a passenger train in northeast Thailand on Wednesday. The accident occurred in the Sikhio district of Nakhon Ratchasima province, approximately 230km (143 miles) northeast of Bangkok.

Initial reports stated 22 fatalities, but one official from the State Railway of Thailand told Sky News that the death toll had risen to 27, and authorities expect that number to increase.

Accident Details

The train was traveling from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani province when the crane fell, causing the train to derail and briefly catch fire.

Local resident Mitr Intrpanya, who was near the scene, told AFP he heard a loud noise followed by two explosions at around 9 a.m.. He said the crane appeared to strike the middle of the second carriage, splitting it in half.

Thatchapon Chinnawong, the district police chief, stated that 80 people were injured in addition to the confirmed deaths.

High-Speed Rail Project

The crane was being used to build an elevated track as part of a joint Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project. The $5.4 billion project aims to connect Bangkok to Kunming in China via Laos by 2028.

Local police reported to Reuters that the crane collapsed while working on the high-speed rail project and hit the passing train.

Investigation and Response

Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said there were 195 passengers on board the train and has ordered a full investigation into the accident. Rescue workers responded to the scene after the fire was extinguished and searched for trapped passengers.

Conclusion

A construction crane collapsed onto a passenger train in northeast Thailand, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries. The incident occurred during the construction of a high-speed rail project. Authorities are investigating the cause of the accident.