On October 1, 2024, a devastating school bus fire occurred in Pathum Thani Province, Thailand, resulting in the tragic loss of 23 lives—20 students and 3 teachers—while 19 others sustained injuries. The bus, carrying 44 passengers from Wat Khao Phraya Sangkharam School in Uthai Thani Province, was en route to a field trip when a tire explosion caused the vehicle to lose control and crash into a barrier, igniting a fire fueled by natural gas canisters. Only 22 individuals managed to escape the inferno. apnews.com+7en.wikipedia.org+7en.wikipedia.org+7en.wikipedia.org+3vaticannews.va+3theguardian.com+3apnews.com+1voanews.com+1
The bus, registered in 1970, had been illegally modified to accommodate 11 gas canisters, exceeding the permitted six. This modification, along with the vehicle’s age and potential electrical issues, contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. The driver, who initially fled the scene, was later arrested and charged with reckless driving causing death. en.wikipedia.org+3apnews.com+3apnews.com+3en.wikipedia.orgfrance24.com
In response to the tragedy, Thailand’s Department of Land Transport initiated urgent inspections of all natural gas-fueled buses and suspended school trips. The government also announced plans to enhance safety regulations for school transportation. npr.org+5voanews.com+51news.co.nz+5
A royal cremation ceremony, sponsored by King Maha Vajiralongkorn, was held in Lan Sak to honor the victims. The event was attended by mourners, monks, and government officials, reflecting the nation’s collective grief. voanews.com+3theasialive.com+3apnews.com+3apnews.com
This tragedy has sparked widespread outrage and calls for stricter safety measures in Thailand’s transportation system. The incident highlights the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to prevent such disasters in the future.apnews.com+1apnews.com+1
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