BANGKOK — In the early hours of Wednesday, a tragic accident unfolded in eastern Thailand as a chartered bus overturned, leading to the loss of 18 lives and leaving 31 others injured, authorities reported.
The disaster took place in Prachinburi province, during a nighttime journey intended for a municipal study tour. The bus, which was traveling from northern Thailand, had been en route to the coastal province of Rayong.
To address this tragic incident, the Department of Land Transport announced plans to work closely with the police in probing the accident. Additionally, steps will be taken to enhance inspections of public transportation vehicles, ensuring they adhere to safety regulations and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Thailand struggles with a significant road safety crisis. According to the World Health Organization, the country holds the unfortunate distinction of ranking ninth worldwide out of 175 nations in terms of road traffic fatalities.
The gravity of this issue was also brought to light in another devastating incident in October of the previous year. A bus fire during a school field trip ended the lives of 23 students and teachers. This catastrophe was believed to have been exacerbated by poor vehicle maintenance and inadequate inspections.
Another grave accident in December 2023 further underscored these concerns. In the western province of Prachuap Khiri Khan, a bus carrying 49 passengers crashed, killing 14 and injuring over 30 others. Investigations pointed to the possibility that driver fatigue may have contributed, as the vehicle had left the road and collided with a tree.
