In a devastating incident in Chachoengsao province, Thailand, a freight train tragically struck a pick-up truck while crossing railway tracks, resulting in eight fatalities and four injuries. The accident occurred at 2:20 am on Friday in the Mueang district. Among the victims were three women aged 22, 55, and 64, and five men aged 18, 27, 55, 60, and 62. The State Railway of Thailand reported that one of the injured victims is in critical condition.
The unfortunate collision took place at an unauthorized crossing point without any automatic barriers to stop vehicles as trains approach. Shockingly, there are currently 693 unauthorized crossing points along the national rail system, raising concerns about railway safety.
Despite the crossing being unsanctioned, authorities revealed that lights and warning signs were present at the accident site. The 54-year-old truck driver, Wichai Yulek, informed authorities that he noticed the approaching train and heard its warning horn. While he tried to slow down, passengers in the vehicle urged him to continue, leading to the tragic collision.
The unfortunate collision took place at an unauthorized crossing point without any automatic barriers to stop vehicles as trains approach. Shockingly, there are currently 693 unauthorized crossing points along the national rail system, raising concerns about railway safety.
Despite the crossing being unsanctioned, authorities revealed that lights and warning signs were present at the accident site. The 54-year-old truck driver, Wichai Yulek, informed authorities that he noticed the approaching train and heard its warning horn. While he tried to slow down, passengers in the vehicle urged him to continue, leading to the tragic collision.
The truck was carrying workers to Laem Chabang in Chonburi province when the accident occurred. Suraphat Prasop, one of the passengers, testified that he saw the train approaching as the vehicle approached the railway. Although the train's horn was sounded three times, the driver did not stop in time to prevent the collision.
Regrettably, deadly accidents are all too common in Thailand, with the country frequently topping the list of the world's most dangerous roads. Contributing factors include speeding, drunk driving, and weak law enforcement. The State Railway of Thailand has taken measures to prevent accidents by installing warning signs and flashing lights at unauthorized crossing points.
This tragic incident is a painful reminder of the need for increased railway safety measures and better awareness among drivers and pedestrians. As the nation mourns the loss of these lives, authorities must continue their efforts to prevent such heartbreaking accidents in the future.
Regrettably, deadly accidents are all too common in Thailand, with the country frequently topping the list of the world's most dangerous roads. Contributing factors include speeding, drunk driving, and weak law enforcement. The State Railway of Thailand has taken measures to prevent accidents by installing warning signs and flashing lights at unauthorized crossing points.
This tragic incident is a painful reminder of the need for increased railway safety measures and better awareness among drivers and pedestrians. As the nation mourns the loss of these lives, authorities must continue their efforts to prevent such heartbreaking accidents in the future.
