NAKHON RATCHASIMA, THAILAND – A construction crane fell onto a moving express train in northeastern Thailand, killing at least 31 people and injuring more than 67.
Express train hit by falling crane
A construction crane crashed onto a diesel express train in Thailand’s northeastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima, causing a major derailment and fire. According to official figures, at least 29 people died and more than 67 passengers were injured, several of them seriously. Almost 200 people were reported to have been on board at the time of the crash.
Accident on Bangkok–Ubon Ratchathani line
The accident occurred on 14 January at around 9:05 a.m. on the rail line between Bangkok and Ubon Ratchathani. The affected train was Special Express Train No. 21, a diesel-powered service on the busy northeastern route. The train was travelling between Sikhio and Nong Nam Khun stations when it entered an active construction zone.
Work on high-speed rail bridge underway
Initial findings indicated that work was in progress on a high-speed rail bridge at the site. A large crane was lifting concrete elements for the project when it lost control for reasons that remained unclear. The crane then toppled directly onto the passing express train.
Carriages torn from the tracks
The impact ripped several carriages from the tracks and caused severe damage to the front of the train. Some of the leading cars were heavily crushed, while other carriages jumped the rails and came to rest on their sides. Shortly after the collision, a fire broke out and spread quickly, hampering the work of rescuers.
Panic among nearly 200 passengers
Witnesses described scenes of fear and confusion as passengers tried to escape the wrecked coaches.
“People were screaming and trying to get out as smoke and flames filled the carriages.”
said one eyewitness, a passenger on the express train. Several carriages were struck directly by parts of the crane, while others derailed and toppled beside the tracks.
Large-scale rescue operation launched
Rescue units from several organisations, including local emergency services and medical teams, were deployed to the scene. Using heavy equipment, responders worked to free injured passengers and recover the dead from the crushed carriages, while firefighters fought the blaze.
“The wreckage was difficult to access, and the fire made the rescue operation even more challenging.”
said a member of a local rescue team.
Rail services suspended on northeastern route
The State Railway of Thailand temporarily suspended train services on the northeastern line following the crash. The pause was aimed at clearing the wreckage and securing the construction area to prevent further danger. Authorities said services would resume only after safety on the affected section was assured.
Investigation into cause of crane failure
An investigative commission was set up to determine why the crane collapsed onto the moving train. Officials said the probe would examine whether human error or a technical failure of the crane led to the disaster.
“We will investigate all possible causes to understand what happened and to prevent such an accident from occurring again.”
said a representative of the investigation commission.