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12 Killed, Dozens Injured as Crane Collapse Derails Thai Train

By The South Asia Times

BANGKOK - At least 12 people were killed and dozens other injured when a crane collapse on passenger train in Thailand, official said on Wednesday.

The accident occurred this morning, in Ban Thanon Khot, Sikhio district, when a crane used in the construction of a high-speed rail bridge fell onto the tracks as the train, carrying 195 passengers from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani, was passing through.

The train slammed into the fallen crane at high speed, causing several carriages to derail and catch fire. Passengers were trapped in the wreckage, and rescue teams were dispatched immediately.

The Thai government on X said that Deputy Prime Minister Phiphat has ordered an urgent investigation into the crane collapse that derailed Express Train 21 in Nakhon Ratchasima, leaving at least 12 people dead and injuring 30 to 40 passengers.

In response, DPM Phiphat has instructed a full safety review and ordered the directors of Rail Transport and the State Railway of Thailand to proceed to the site. Authorities are working to assess the scale of the injuries, which include burns, fractures, and trauma.

“The government extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims,” the statement said. Officials also warned that the death toll could rise, as some of the injured remain in critical condition.

Investigators are examining why the crane collapsed and whether construction and safety protocols were properly followed. Rail services along the route remain suspended while debris is cleared and damage assessed. The Thai government emphasized that all necessary measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.

This incident marks one of the deadliest rail accidents in recent Thai history, prompting heightened scrutiny of ongoing high-speed rail construction projects.