More than 20 children feared dead in Thailand bus crash
Over 20 feared dead as a bus carrying primary school children crashes and catches fire near Bangkok, with rescue efforts hampered by intense heat.
A tragic accident occurred just outside Bangkok when a bus carrying dozens of primary school children crashed and caught fire, leaving over 20 feared dead. The bus, returning from a school trip in Uthai Thani, was engulfed in flames after reportedly crashing due to a tire blowout.
Out of the 41 passengers, 16 children and three teachers miraculously escaped the inferno, but 22 children and three teachers remain unaccounted for, according to Thailand’s Transport Minister, Suriya Juangroongruangkit. Rescue operations have been severely hindered by the intense heat from the fire, making it difficult to fully assess the charred wreckage.
Eyewitness reports and photos depict the bus engulfed in thick black smoke as firefighters worked tirelessly to control the blaze. Eight survivors were rushed to the hospital, many with severe injuries.
Transport Minister Juangroongruangkit attributed the severity of the fire to the use of compressed natural gas (CNG), calling it "extremely risky" for passenger vehicles and urging a review of safety regulations regarding its use. Rescue teams confirmed that the fire began at the front of the bus, with many of the victims trapped toward the rear.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra extended her heartfelt condolences to the victims' families, pledging government assistance for medical care and compensation for those who lost their lives. She also ordered officials to visit the site to oversee the ongoing rescue efforts.
The driver of the bus fled the scene, but authorities are confident of his imminent capture. The children onboard were between 3 and 15 years old, though full details are still emerging.
This devastating crash highlights Thailand’s road safety crisis, with the country recording nearly 20,000 road fatalities each year.
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