Thailand has been struck by another fatal construction accident after a massive crane collapsed onto a busy highway outside Bangkok, killing two people and injuring several others. The tragedy has intensified fears about safety standards across the country’s booming infrastructure sector and sparked renewed calls for accountability.
The accident happened in Samut Sakhon province, along a major highway connecting Bangkok to southern Thailand. A crane being used to build an elevated roadway suddenly toppled over, crashing onto the road below and crushing passing vehicles. Two people lost their lives at the scene, while several others were hurt and taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Rescue teams worked for hours to secure the unstable structure and remove debris, causing major traffic disruptions in the area.
This latest incident comes just a day after a far more devastating crane-related disaster in northeastern Thailand, where a crane fell onto a moving passenger train, leading to a deadly derailment. The close timing of the two accidents has deeply shocked the public and raised serious questions about how construction projects are being managed and monitored.
Government officials have acknowledged the growing concerns and announced investigations into both accidents. Authorities are examining whether safety rules were ignored, whether equipment was properly maintained, and whether workers were adequately trained. There are also reports that the same large construction company may be linked to multiple recent projects where accidents occurred, adding to public outrage.
The highway project in Samut Sakhon has a troubled history, with residents often complaining about falling debris, poor safety barriers, and risky working conditions. Many locals say they have long feared that a major accident was inevitable, especially given the scale of heavy machinery operating above busy traffic lanes.
Public anger has surged following the twin disasters, with families of victims, road users, and civil society groups demanding stricter enforcement of safety laws. Experts warn that Thailand’s rapid push to expand roads, railways, and urban infrastructure must not come at the cost of human lives. They argue that better inspections, tougher penalties, and independent safety audits are urgently needed.
The Thai government has promised to review construction regulations and take action against any companies found to be negligent. Compensation and support for the victims’ families have also been pledged.
As the country mourns those lost, the latest crane collapse stands as a grim reminder of the dangers hidden behind major development projects. Many now hope these tragedies will force lasting reforms to ensure that progress no longer comes at such a deadly price.
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