Bangkok, June 7, 2023 – Department of Land Transport officials were seen inspecting the wreckage of a white Scania air-conditioned passenger tour bus with registration number 33-1104, following a fire incident on the Si Rat Expressway earlier today. The authorities are working to determine the initial cause of the fire that resulted in severe traffic congestion during the morning rush hour.
The incident took place at approximately 8:17 a.m., when Pol. Lt. Col. Krit Limchamroon, Deputy Superintendent (Investigation) of the Expressway Police Station 2, received a notification from the 199 hotline and the expressway rescue workers regarding a bus fire. Responding swiftly, a fire truck from the Bangkok Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Bureau was dispatched to the scene, located before the entrance to Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road.
Upon arrival, officials discovered the air-conditioned bus engulfed in black smoke and flames, originating from the luggage compartment beneath the vehicle. The fire rapidly spread, causing extensive damage to the entire bus. In order to control the blaze, authorities closed the road and deployed water resources for approximately 15 minutes. It took nearly an hour to clear the accident site and restore normal traffic flow.
The driver of the bus, Mr. Kanchit Kaewmanee, aged 48, provided his account of the incident to the investigating officer. He stated that prior to the fire, he had picked up 15 Polish tourists from a hotel in the Makkasan area, with the destination being Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. While driving near the scene, he detected a burning smell and observed smoke emanating from the luggage compartment.
Acting promptly, Mr. Kaewmanee parked the bus on the left side of the road and swiftly opened the doors for the passengers to disembark. He attempted to extinguish the fire using a chemical fire extinguisher, but his efforts were in vain. Within a short span of time, thick black smoke and flames overtook the bus, causing extensive damage.
Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported as a result of the incident. However, the bus fire led to a severe traffic jam, with long queues extending to the Phaya Thai level and the Rama 9 Road toll booth. As the Department of Land Transport officials continue their investigation, commuters are advised to seek alternative routes to avoid further delays and congestion.
