At least 22 people have died after a construction crane collapsed onto a moving passenger train in north-eastern Thailand, causing several carriages to derail and triggering one of the country’s deadliest rail accidents in recent years.
The incident happened at around 09:00 local time on Wednesday in Ban Thanon Khot, located in Nakhon Ratchasima province, roughly 250km north-east of Bangkok. Authorities said the train was travelling from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani when it struck the fallen crane.
Emergency services confirmed that more than 60 people were injured, including at least eight who remain in serious condition. Based on the train’s seating layout, around 195 passengers were believed to be on board at the time of the crash. Officials said all passengers, both injured and uninjured, have now been evacuated from the scene.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes moments after the impact. A train staff member said he was thrown into the air when the crane came down, while another passenger said one carriage appeared to be badly torn apart. Rescue teams were seen climbing over the damaged train to reach those trapped inside.
Rail Disruptions and Passenger Impact
The State Railway of Thailand said the accident led to major service disruption. Two train services were cancelled and 12 others had their routes altered. Passengers holding tickets for affected journeys were offered full refunds.
Rail officials said track inspections and safety checks were underway before services could gradually resume.
High-Speed Rail Project Under Scrutiny
The crane collapse occurred at a construction site linked to a US$5.4bn high-speed rail project intended to connect Bangkok with Kunming in China. The section involved was part of the Bangkok–Nong Khai high-speed rail line.
Project records show the Lam Takhong–Sikhio section was being built by the Italian-Thai Development Company, one of Thailand’s largest contractors. The same firm has previously faced scrutiny after a separate building collapse in Bangkok last year, for which senior executives and engineers were charged with professional negligence. The company has been contacted for comment.
China Responds to Incident
China’s foreign ministry said it was verifying details of the crash. Speaking at a routine press briefing, Mao Ning said Beijing placed high importance on the safety of overseas projects and personnel, adding that early information suggested the affected construction segment was being handled by a Thai company.
Government Orders Investigation
Thailand’s transport minister has ordered a full investigation into the cause of the collapse, including whether construction safety standards were followed. The findings are expected to examine contractor responsibility, site supervision and regulatory oversight.