Suphan Buri, Thailand – An explosion at a fireworks factory in Muang district of Suphan Buri on Wednesday afternoon claimed the lives of at least 22 people, with around 10 others reported missing. The explosion occurred around 3:30 pm in tambon Salakhao, spreading debris in a radius of 100 meters and leaving human remains scattered everywhere. The blast also resulted in extensive damage.
The factory, located in a farmhouse, stored gunpowder and other raw materials for fireworks. Local residents reported that about 20 workers had arrived at the factory in the morning, but none were seen coming out after the explosion. Officials are investigating the cause of the blast and have not found any survivors at the site.
Reports indicated that an explosion at the same factory in November 2022 resulted in the death of one person. Records showed that over the course of 15 years, there were 24 explosions at fireworks factories and warehouses, causing numerous deaths and injuries. Many illegal fireworks factories and warehouses without proper standards are scattered throughout different communities in Thailand, according to an environmental and health expert.
Following a tragedy in July 2023 in Narathiwat, in which 11 people were killed and 389 injured, the failure of relevant agencies to proactively address the issue was highlighted. The expert emphasized the importance of establishing safety standards for fireworks factories and warehouses, including implementing a designated “bubble zone” and reserved areas to prevent community access within a certain radius.
Authorities are now investigating the cause of the explosion and are working to prevent similar tragedies in the future.