Bangkok, Thailand — A tragic incident unfolded on the outskirts of Bangkok on Tuesday as a bus carrying elementary and junior high school students, along with their teachers, erupted in flames, resulting in at least 23 fatalities. The victims were part of a school excursion originating from Uthai Thani province, aiming to visit locations in Ayutthaya and Nonthaburi provinces.
Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungruengkit, who spoke to reporters at the scene, stated that the bus was transporting a total of 44 passengers. Heartbreakingly, authorities confirmed the recovery of 20 children and three teachers among those perished.
Eyewitnesses and disturbing videos circulating on social media show the vehicle fully engulfed under an overpass, with dark smoke billowing into the air. Rescue operations continued for hours, with firefighters pictured working around the charred remains of what was once a lively school trip.
The students on board attended Wat Khao Phraya school, and the journey turned tragic in Pathum Thani province, north of Bangkok. Initial investigations suggest the fire may have started after a tire explosion caused the bus to scrape against a road barrier.
Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul informed that while the bus driver survived, he has since been unaccounted for. Efforts to formally identify the victims have been challenging, as most bodies were found towards the bus’s rear, indicating the front was likely where the blaze originated.
Amidst this national tragedy, expressions of grief and condolences have poured in from all corners, including from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The Prime Minister took to the social media platform X to extend her deepest sympathies, emphasizing, “As a mother, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the families.” She assured that the government would cover medical expenses and provide compensation to the families of the victims.
In addition, Rangsit Hospital, situated near the mishap site, reported that three girls were admitted with severe injuries, including burns affecting the face and eyes, underscoring the horrific nature of the incident.
This calamity has cast a somber mood over the nation, prompting a thorough investigation into the safety measures and conditions of public transport vehicles, especially those designated for school trips. It raises critical questions about vehicle maintenance and safety standards, which authorities have vowed to address in the aftermath of this disastrous event.
As the community mourns, the resilience and solidarity among the citizens have been evident, with calls for enhanced safety protocols and support systems to prevent such incidents in the future. The road to recovery will be long, as the psychological and emotional scars borne by survivors and the victims’ families will necessitate sustained communal and governmental support.