Bangkok: The Prime Minister expressed sorrow over the deaths and injuries, and ordered expedited care, investigation, and compensation following a tragic train-bus collision at Makkasan Airport Rail Link station.
According to Thai News Agency, on May 16, 2026, at 10:00 PM, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, along with Minister of Public Health Pattana Promphat, Deputy Minister of Interior Jetset Thaiseth, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior Arsit Sampanrat, and other government officials, arrived at the scene to oversee the removal of wreckage from the bus that collided with freight train number 2126. The incident prompted a swift response from the government, emphasizing the need for immediate medical care and support for the affected families.
Upon arrival, the Prime Minister and his delegation were met by key officials, including Mr. Siriphong Angkasakulkiat, Deputy Minister of Transport; Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet, National Police Chief; Mr. Anan Phothinimdaeng, Governor of the State Railway of Thailand; and Mr. Kittikan Chomduang Charuwarapolkul, Director of the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority. They received a briefing on the situation from forensic officers at the scene and later visited a relief center in Ratchathewi district, where they discussed the ongoing response with local representatives.
The Prime Minister expressed his condolences to the victims' families and reiterated the government's commitment to providing comprehensive care for the injured and ensuring that the deceased are identified and returned to their families promptly. He highlighted the importance of investigating the incident thoroughly to prevent future occurrences, questioning why there were no warnings at the congested intersection where the collision occurred.
Emphasizing the urgency of the situation, the Prime Minister instructed medical units to prioritize the care of the 30 injured individuals and ensure their speedy recovery. He also stressed the need for the bodies of the deceased to be returned for funeral rites as soon as possible. In response to concerns about security measures, he noted that existing protocols would be reviewed to address any gaps and prevent similar incidents.
Following his site visit, the Prime Minister engaged in a brief conversation with Mr. Anucha Burapachaisri, the Democrat Party's candidate for Bangkok governor, affirming that there were no special discussions, just a routine exchange. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to clear the area and reopen the road by 11:00 PM.