Nakhon ratchasima: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, has ordered an immediate inspection of the site where a construction crane collapsed onto a train in Sikhiu District. The incident, which took place at kilometer 21 of the Sikhiu double-track railway project, has resulted in four fatalities and approximately 20 injuries. Initial reports were received from the acting governor of the State Railway of Thailand and the director-general of the Department of Rail Transport, who are currently on their way to the site.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pipat has instructed the Ministry of Transport to work closely with the Ministry of Labor to determine if the deceased were workers. In such a case, coordination with the Social Security Office will be initiated to process compensation funds, ensuring relief for both the injured and the families of the deceased.
Regarding the cause of the accident, Mr. Pipat mentioned that the Acting Governor of the State Railway of Thailand and the Director-General of the Department of Rail Transport have not yet arrived at the scene. He has requested that a progress report on the cause of the accident be delayed until they can provide an update. Mr. Pipat expressed his condolences to the victims and their families.
When questioned about the number of injured individuals still trapped on the train, Mr. Pipat confirmed that there are reportedly 20 injuries as far as he is aware.