BANGKOK (AP) - An elevated road under construction in Bangkok, Thailand's capital, tragically collapsed in the early morning hours, resulting in the deaths of at least five individuals, as reported by officials from the Thai government. In addition to the fatalities, 24 others sustained injuries at the collapsed construction site, highlighting the dangers associated with construction work in the area.
Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and noted that compensation would be provided to the affected individuals by both the contractors and relevant government agencies. According to Suriya, the deceased included four construction workers and an engineer. Fortunately, no road users were harmed during the incident, as traffic lanes near the site were closed at the time of the collapse.
Bangkok police commander Siam Boonsom indicated that an investigation is currently underway to determine the exact cause of the collapse. Authorities have stated that they plan to pursue legal actions against any individuals or parties found responsible for the incident. Images from the site displayed large metal and concrete debris littering the area and obstructing the roadway, illustrating the severity of the collapse.
The project for the 5-kilometer (3-mile) elevated road began in 2022 and has been a focal point of ongoing construction efforts within Bangkok, with information regarding the project available on the Expressway Authority of Thailand’s website. Surachet Laophulsuk, the governor of the agency, confirmed that efforts are being made to clear the debris from the site as quickly as possible. However, he cautioned that the cleanup process might take up to a week. As a precautionary measure, contractors involved in the project have been ordered to halt operations for 14 days while the investigation takes place.
Road and construction safety concerns have long been an issue in Thailand, particularly given the history of unsafe practices in the industry. The collapse is part of a significant road linking Bangkok to the southern regions of Thailand, which has faced criticism for its extended construction timelines and recurring accidents. In light of this latest tragedy, Minister Suriya announced that the transportation ministry is in the process of drafting new regulations aimed at enhancing safety standards. These proposed regulations would permit the suspension of contractors found liable for construction-related accidents and would also allow for those contractors to be blacklisted from future government contracts.
The unfortunate incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for improved safety measures and regulatory oversight within Thailand's construction sector, especially as the country continues to develop its infrastructure.
