BANGKOK, Thailand – The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is investigating the cause of a deadly collision between a freight train and a BMTA air-conditioned bus at the Asoke–Phetchaburi intersection, which resulted in a fire and multiple casualties.
SRT Governor Anan Photnimdaeng said a meeting on May 17 focused on three key areas: support and compensation for victims and families, investigation of evidence and circumstances to be submitted to the Royal Thai Police, and safety improvements at railway crossing points.
He explained that railway crossings in Thailand are divided into two systems: manually operated barriers and automated barriers. The accident site used a manually controlled barrier, where staff must assess road traffic and incoming train movements before lowering the gate and issuing signals to train drivers confirming safe passage.
In this case, heavy traffic congestion left vehicles trapped on the tracks, preventing the barrier from fully lowering. As a result, the signal to the train driver was not activated. According to procedure, if no signal is visible, the driver must rely on flag signals from staff. Authorities confirmed the train driver remains hospitalized and has not yet given a statement. Black box data from the train is expected to be analyzed soon. Unlike aviation recorders, the railway system records speed and braking data but does not capture audio.
The SRT stated that compensation for fatalities is being prepared, with preliminary figures estimated at around 340,000 baht per victim, while injured passengers have already been visited by officials.
The governor also said the agency is reviewing long-term safety upgrades, including elevated rail projects in Bangkok to eliminate at-grade crossings in the future.
Officials urged the public to follow safety guidelines at railway crossings, including stopping when warning signals are activated, avoiding stopping on yellow box junction markings, and allowing barriers to be fully lowered before crossing. The SRT also plans to improve emergency communication systems to enhance braking and warning distance for train operators. (TNA)
