A devastating bus fire in Pathum Thani, Thailand, on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, claimed the lives of 25 people, including 22 students and three teachers from Wat Khao Praya Sangkharam school in Uthai Thani.
The bus, carrying 38 students and six teachers on a field trip to the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, was part of a three-bus fleet. Initial investigations revealed that the front left tire of the bus blew out, causing the wheel to catch fire. The driver lost control, sending the bus crashing into the median barrier. The flames quickly spread throughout the vehicle, trapping many passengers inside.
Nineteen passengers managed to escape the inferno, but 23 students and three teachers perished in the blaze. Two more children later succumbed to their injuries in the hospital, bringing the total death toll to 25.
The bus, a 54-year-old vehicle registered in February 1970, had undergone significant and illegal modifications, including a tampered chassis number. While registered with only three gas tanks, it contained 10 in total, illegally installed in various locations. Investigators suspect a gas leak, potentially caused by a short circuit, might have ignited the blaze.
The tragedy sparked widespread outrage and grief across Thailand, with many expressing their condolences to the families of the victims.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra extended her condolences to the bereaved families and promised government support, including medical costs and financial aid.
The incident also raised serious concerns about safety standards for school transportation in Thailand. Many online users called for a halt to long-distance field trips involving young students. Several organizations urged a review of safety measures in schoolchild transportation, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and enforcement.
The bus operator, Chinnaboot Tour, has had its operating license suspended. The driver, who was later found and arrested, faces charges of reckless driving, failing to stop to help others, and failing to report the accident.
The Thai Ministry of Transport ordered all 13,000 buses running on natural gas in Thailand to undergo renewed safety checks within two months of the disaster. The Ministry also suggested a ban on buses running on natural gas.
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