At least 32 people have been killed and 66 others injured after a construction crane collapsed onto a moving passenger train in north-eastern Thailand, triggering one of the country’s deadliest rail accidents in recent years.
The incident occurred at about 9:00am local time when the crane fell across the railway line, derailing the train and crushing several carriages.
One of the affected coaches reportedly caught fire, compounding the chaos as emergency responders rushed to the scene to rescue trapped passengers.
Authorities said approximately 171 passengers were onboard the train at the time of the crash.
Among the injured are a one-year-old child and an 85-year-old elderly passenger, with at least seven people listed in critical condition and receiving intensive medical care.
The State Railway of Thailand confirmed that a full investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the collapse.
Officials also announced that legal action would be taken against the construction company responsible for operating the crane near the rail corridor.
Italian-Thai Development Public Company Limited, identified as the firm linked to the construction work, expressed regret over the incident.
In a statement, the company said it would cooperate with investigators and provide compensation and relief to the families of those killed or injured, as authorities continue to assess safety lapses surrounding the tragedy.
