Nakhon ratchasima: "Pipat" has mandated an immediate investigation into a tragic crane collapse that crushed a train in Sikhiu District, resulting in four confirmed deaths and multiple injuries.
According to Thai News Agency, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, has directed the Director-General of the Department of Rail Transport and the Acting Governor of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) to visit the accident site urgently. The crane, part of a high-speed rail project, collapsed at kilometer 21 of the Sikhiu double-track railway project. Early reports reveal that 20 individuals have sustained injuries.
Mr. Pipat instructed coordination with the Ministry of Labour to assess whether the deceased were workers, which would involve the Social Security Office in processing compensation funds for the victims' families and the injured.
The cause of the accident remains under investigation, with the Acting Governor of SRT and the Director-General of the Department of Rail Transport en route to the location. Initial condolences have been expressed by Mr. Pipat for the victims.
When questioned about the number of injured still trapped, Mr. Pipat confirmed that there were 20 injured individuals, though specifics are still being verified.
Mr. Pichet Kunathamarak, Director-General of the Department of Rail Transport, is on the scene with relevant agencies to determine the facts and implement safety measures.
Mr. Anan Phothinimdaeng, Deputy Governor and Acting Governor of SRT, has gone to the site to oversee relief efforts and coordinate with medical facilities. The injured have been transported to various hospitals including Sikhiu Hospital, Pak Chong Nana Hospital, Thepparat Hospital, and Bangkok Ratchasima Hospital. Verification of the total number of injuries is ongoing, with updates to be provided as more information becomes available.