BANGKOK — A devastating bus accident in Prachin Buri province has led to the deaths of at least 19 individuals, prompting Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to call for a thorough investigation. The accident, which occurred in the early hours on 26 February 2024, involved a tour bus that lost control and rolled into a ditch.
The Incident
According to local reports, the bus, carrying 49 people, including two drivers, was on a ‘community study tour‘ from Bueng Kan province to Rayong. Around 3.20am, as the vehicle navigated a downhill stretch along Khao San Pu Ton mountain, the bus’s brakes reportedly failed, causing the driver to lose control.
Casualties and Response
- At the accident scene, 16 people were declared dead, with another dying later in hospital.
- Emergency services transported 19 victims to Nadi Hospital and 13 to Kabin Buri Hospital for treatment.
Eyewitness accounts revealed distressing scenes of rescue efforts, with emergency personnel working tirelessly to aid victims.
Government Action and Road Safety Concerns
In a swift response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Shinawatra expressed her condolences to the victims’ families and stressed the need for rigorous vehicle inspections.
“If found culpable due to vehicle standards violations or reckless operation, legal action will be taken,” she stated, highlighting Thailand’s troubling statistics on road safety.
With Thailand ranking ninth among 175 World Health Organisation member countries for road traffic deaths in 2023, calls for improved enforcement of safety regulations have escalated.
History of Road Incidents
This tragic incident follows a similar occurrence last year, when a school bus fire claimed 23 lives, including many children. Such recurring events underline the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures.
Conclusion
As investigations continue, the Thai government faces mounting pressure to address the systemic issues contributing to road accidents. The hope is that such a tragedy will propel necessary reforms to safeguard public transport.