A devastating school bus accident in suburban Bangkok on Tuesday claimed the lives of more than 20 children and teachers, after the vehicle burst into flames following a tire blowout. The bus, carrying students on a school trip, became engulfed in an inferno, with many of the bodies burned beyond recognition.
Fatal Accident on School Trip
The accident occurred as the bus, transporting 38 students and six teachers from Wat Khao Phraya Sangkharam school, was en route from Uthai Thani province to visit a science museum in Bangkok. The bus’s front tire exploded on the highway, causing the vehicle to collide with a barrier and catch fire. According to rescue workers, the intense blaze quickly consumed the bus, leaving most passengers trapped inside.
Read More: Thailand Passes Same Sex Marriage Law, First in Southeast Asia
“Some of the bodies we rescued were very small, indicating the young age of many victims,” said Piyalak Thinkaew, who led the recovery team. He added that the fire started at the front of the bus, forcing passengers to flee towards the rear, where most of the bodies were found.
Survivors and the Hunt for the Driver
Out of the 44 passengers, 21 managed to escape the burning vehicle, while 23 are feared dead. The survivors, including some children with severe burns, were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. However, the search for the bus driver, who fled the scene after the crash, is ongoing. National police chief Kitrat Phanphet vowed that the driver would be found and held accountable.
Authorities are conducting DNA tests to confirm the identities of the deceased, as the fire left many bodies unrecognizable.
Calls for Road Safety Reforms
Thailand has long had a poor road safety record, with over 20,000 fatalities annually. The incident has reignited concerns about the country’s transport regulations. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra visited the hospital treating survivors and promised government support, including medical care and compensation for the victims’ families. “As a mother, my heart goes out to the families of the victims,” she said.
Read More: Thailand introduces Halal Economic Corridor (HEC) initiative
Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit expressed concerns over the safety of vehicles using compressed natural gas (CNG), which powered the bus involved. He called for a review of safety measures for public transportation.