Tragic Bus Crash Near Bangkok Leaves Over 20 Feared Dead

 

A bus carrying dozens of primary school children has tragically crashed and caught fire just outside Bangkok, leaving over 20 feared dead. The bus, returning from a school trip in the northern province of Uthai Thani, was involved in the accident, which has devastated families and shocked the nation.

Out of the 41 passengers on board, 16 children and three teachers managed to escape the flames. However, 22 children and three teachers remain missing, according to Thailand’s Transport Minister, Suriya Juangroongruangkit. Rescue efforts have been hindered by the intense heat from the fire, making it difficult for investigators to fully examine the wreckage.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as harrowing, with images showing the bus engulfed in thick black smoke as firefighters fought to control the blaze. Eight survivors were rushed to the hospital, many suffering from severe injuries.

Transport Minister Juangroongruangkit highlighted that the bus was using compressed natural gas (CNG), which likely contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. He called for a review of safety regulations concerning the use of such fuel in passenger vehicles, labeling it "extremely risky."

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed her heartfelt condolences to the victims' families and promised government support. "The government will cover medical expenses and provide compensation to those who lost their lives," she said. She also directed ministers to visit the accident site.

Initial reports suggest that a tire blowout caused the bus to crash into a highway barrier, sparking the deadly fire. Rescue workers confirmed that the blaze originated at the front of the bus, trapping many victims toward the rear.

The bus driver fled the scene following the accident, but authorities are confident he will be apprehended soon. The children onboard ranged in age from 3 to 15, though specific details are still being clarified.

Thailand has a notoriously poor road safety record, with approximately 20,000 fatalities each year, making this tragedy a stark reminder of the ongoing dangers on the country’s roads.