Bangkok: In a tragic incident, a school bus engulfed in flames in the Thai capital, Bangkok, with authorities suspecting the loss of numerous lives, officials disclosed on Tuesday.
The bus, transporting 38 students and six educators on a school excursion from Wat Khao Phraya school in Uthai Thani province, encountered a harrowing event when a tire burst, leading to a collision with a barrier.
Information from government sources indicates that 16 individuals have been hospitalized, with a grave concern for the lives of 25 individuals.
A rescue personnel reported to a local news outlet that the incident unfolded around midday in a northern Bangkok suburb. The collision triggered the fire, which subsequently spread to the fuel tanks, exacerbating the situation.
Prime Minister Shinawatra extended her sympathies to the bereaved families, expressing her deepest sorrow.
"As a mother, I wish to convey my profound condolences to the families of the deceased and the injured," she shared on social media.
Out of the 38 individuals on board, 25 remain unaccounted for, leaving the families in a state of distress and uncertainty.
Transport Minister Jungrungreangkit informed the media that the bus was en route from central Uthai Thani province to Ayutthaya, serving as a school trip.
"At this moment, we are aware that three teachers and 16 students have disembarked. The fate of the remaining individuals is currently under investigation," he disclosed.
Footage captured by local media depicts the devastating scene, with massive flames and billowing smoke from the bus before it was brought under control by firefighting teams.
Interior Minister Charnvirakul cautioned that the exact number of fatalities could not be ascertained due to ongoing investigations, with a grave concern for the survival of approximately 25 individuals.
He further revealed that the driver managed to escape the scene.
The rescue organization, Hongsakul Khlong Luang 21, shared on their Facebook page that they have discovered at least 10 bodies on the bus. However, they also reported that at least 19 survivors have been identified.
This incident underscores the critical need for improved road safety measures in Thailand, where outdated vehicles and reckless driving practices contribute significantly to the country's high mortality rate from road accidents.
