Bangkok: Police have filed charges against the train driver and are urgently questioning witnesses and experts to consider additional offenses. Pol. Lt. Gen. Siam Boonsom, Commander of the Bangkok Metropolitan Police, revealed the progress of the investigation into the train-bus collision that resulted in numerous deaths and injuries. He stated that a meeting was held today with the investigative team, including Pol. Maj. Gen. Somkuan Phuengsub, Deputy Commander of the Bangkok Metropolitan Police, to expedite the collection of all evidence. This includes CCTV footage, witness statements, and technical evidence to determine who was at fault for the accident and whether those involved fully complied with safety standards. A key focus is on examining the performance of all parties involved, including the guards at the crossing, the train driver, and the bus driver, to determine if they followed standard procedures or neglected their duties.
According to Thai News Agency, this incident occurred at a railway crossing that, despite frequent traffic congestion and vehicle obstructions, has never experienced such a serious accident before. Initially, charges have been filed against the train driver. The bus driver is still receiving treatment for serious injuries and is unable to give a statement. Further investigation is underway regarding the guards at the crossing, including whether they performed their duties fully. If any shortcomings are found, charges will be filed against them.
Regarding the charges against the train driver, a review of CCTV footage revealed that the attendant at the crossing waved a red flag to warn of the unsafe conditions, but the train failed to stop or slow down, colliding with a bus parked across the tracks before hitting other vehicles. This resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries. However, experts are still needed to thoroughly examine the train's log (black box) and investigate the operational standards of the crossing attendants, including the correct distance for waving the red flag, the required braking distance, and the appropriate speed at that location, to determine who was negligent or failed in their duty.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Siam also addressed the traffic problem at the scene of the accident, stating that traffic police are already coordinating and managing the area. However, they will need to discuss with relevant agencies, including the State Railway of Thailand and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, to determine additional accident prevention measures, such as traffic lights, traffic management, and safety measures at railway crossings.