A devastating incident unfolded on Tuesday in suburban Bangkok as a bus carrying young students and teachers on a school trip caught fire, resulting in more than 20 feared dead. The bus, which had 45 passengers including six teachers and 39 elementary and junior high school students, was en route from Uthai Thani province when the fire broke out in Pathum Thani province, a northern suburb of Thailand's capital.
The fire, believed to have started from a tire explosion that caused sparks, quickly engulfed the bus in flames. Despite efforts to extinguish the fire promptly, rescuers faced challenges accessing the bus due to the intense heat inside, which posed a risk of further explosions.
Tragically, three teachers and 20 students remain unaccounted for as authorities work to identify the deceased. Reports indicated that most of the bodies were found in the middle and back seats of the bus, suggesting that the fire may have originated at the front.
While 16 students sustained minor injuries and were treated before being sent home, three others were hospitalized for further care. One young girl, around 7 years old, suffered burns to her face, mouth, and eyes, with doctors striving to prevent permanent damage to her sight.
The driver of the bus, who reportedly fled the scene, is being sought by the police for questioning. Authorities have emphasized that those found responsible for the tragic incident, including the bus company, will face legal consequences.
The Prime Minister expressed her condolences and pledged government support for medical expenses and assistance to the victims' families. The accident has raised concerns about the safety of children traveling long distances on Thailand's roads, known for their high rates of traffic accidents and fatalities.
This heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing road safety measures to protect the lives of all road users, especially children who are vulnerable to such tragedies.
