At least 22 people are killed after a construction crane collapses onto a moving passenger train in Thailand, triggering one of the country’s deadliest rail accidents in recent years.
The crash occurs at around 09:00 local time when the crane falls directly onto a carriage of a train travelling from Bangkok to a northeastern province. Official records show the train is carrying at least 195 passengers at the time.
Authorities say at least 80 people are injured in the collision, including a one-year-old child. A train staff member who survives describes passengers being thrown into the air as the crane strikes the carriage.
The Governor of the State Railway of Thailand orders a “thorough and comprehensive” investigation into the cause of the collapse. Deadly construction accidents are relatively common in Thailand, often linked to weak enforcement of safety standards.
In response, the State Railway of Thailand cancels two train services and diverts 12 others. Passengers affected by the changes are offered full refunds.
The Chinese government says it is verifying details of the incident, which occurs during construction of a Thailand–China railway project. Beijing says the section involved is currently being built by a Thai company and stresses the importance of project safety.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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