Bangkok: A grand merit-making ceremony was held at the Bang Sue Locomotive Depot of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), with renowned monks invited to lead the proceedings. A significant aspect of the event was dedicating merit to the victims of a crane collapse that tragically crushed train carriages in Si Khiew.
According to Thai News Agency, on January 17, 2026, Phra Khru Sophonphatrawet, Dr. (Luang Pho Odd), the Abbot of Wat Sai Mai and the Chief Monk of Lam Luk Ka District, presided over the ceremony. The event took place amidst an atmosphere of faith, aiming to bring auspiciousness to the location and office while instilling confidence for seamless and safe operations.
The ceremony also paid tribute to the 32 train passengers who lost their lives in the crane collapse incident in Si Khieo District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, reflecting compassion and concern for the bereaved families.
During the proceedings, Luang Pho Odd blessed the locomotive, sprinkling it with holy water to ensure peace, happiness, and safety in locomotive operations, which are crucial to the transportation mission.
At the ceremony's conclusion, Luang Por Odd distributed sacred amulets to the officers on duty. This gesture served as a morale booster, encouraging confidence and faith, and guiding their work towards mindfulness, stability, safety, and continued auspiciousness.