A devastating bus accident near Bangkok, Thailand, has left numerous primary school children feared dead. The bus, carrying dozens of students and teachers, caught fire after crashing into a barrier.
Transport Minister Suriyahe Juangroongruangkit states that 22 pupils and three teachers remain unaccounted for. Sixteen children and three teachers managed to escape the inferno. Authorities have recovered ten bodies from the bus.
The accident occurred when a tire burst, sending the bus crashing into a barrier. Flames engulfed the vehicle, producing dense black smoke. Rescue workers struggled to approach the scene due to intense heat.
This tragic incident involved one of three buses returning from a school field trip in Uthai Thani province. The bus ran on compressed natural gas, which Minister Suriyahe believes poses extreme risks.
Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, expressed heartfelt condolences to the affected families. “As a mother, I deeply regret this loss,” she said. The government will cover medical costs and provide compensation.
Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed the driver fled the scene but assured authorities would track him down.
Thailand’s dire road safety record contributes to approximately 20,000 fatalities annually. Unsafe vehicles and reckless driving exacerbate the issue.
The Thailand bus crash highlights concerns about compressed natural gas-powered vehicles. Minister Suriyahe vows to address this issue.
Rescue efforts continue, with investigators working to determine the cause of the Thailand bus crash.
The Thailand bus crash has sent shockwaves through the nation, prompting calls for improved road safety measures.
