At Least 22 Killed as Construction Crane Collapses onto Passenger Train in Thailand

BANGKOK, Jan 14:  At least 22 people were killed and dozens more injured after a construction crane collapsed onto a moving passenger train in northeastern Thailand on Wednesday morning, authorities said.

The deadly incident occurred in the Sikhio district of Nakhon Ratchasima province when a crane being used for a high-speed rail construction project fell onto a train travelling from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani, approximately 230 kilometers northeast of the capital.

Local officials said the crane struck the train with force, causing several carriages to derail. A brief fire broke out following the impact, but emergency crews were able to bring the flames under control shortly afterward.

At least 30 passengers were injured, with several reported to be in critical condition, raising fears that the death toll could increase. Rescue teams rushed to the scene and immediately launched search and evacuation operations.

Police said initial reports confirmed 12 fatalities, but the number rose significantly as rescuers reached additional carriages and debris. Emergency services continue to conduct search and inspection efforts to ensure no passengers remain trapped.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crane’s collapse and assess whether safety protocols at the construction site were followed.

Rail services along the affected route have been temporarily suspended as recovery and repair work continues.