PATTAYA, Thailand – Nearly 20 passengers fled a passenger van on Monday afternoon after smoke and severe engine problems sparked fears of a fire on the Ban Bueng route from Chonburi.
Passengers rush out of van in panic
According to reports, nearly 20 people escaped the vehicle after smoke emerged from the engine compartment and the van showed visible issues.
The route runs from Chonburi to Ban Bueng; eyewitnesses said the situation escalated quickly, causing occupants to exit the vehicle immediately.
Witnesses speak of turbo damage and ‘runaway motor’
At the scene and online, witnesses suspected a turbocharger failure that may have led to a so-called “runaway motor” — a condition in which a diesel engine accelerates uncontrollably.
Several bystanders tried to block the air intake pipe to stall the engine; no official confirmation of the cause was immediately available.
No serious injuries, but great alarm
There were no immediate reports of serious injuries, but many passengers remained visibly shaken after the incident.
Residents and online users expressed concern about the maintenance of heavily used vans, commenting:
“Vehicles that drive every day without a break can also wear out.”
Appeal to authorities and warning to commuters
Social media users called for stricter inspections for commercial vehicles, especially in the area of the Eastern Economic Corridor, and warnings were issued to commuters and operators to pay attention to vehicle condition, unusual noises, smoke, or overheating.