Thailand: At least 18 killed in fireworks factory explosion
In central Thailand, a devastating explosion at a fireworks factory claimed the lives of at least 20 people, reported AFP. The incident occurred around 3:00 pm near Sala Khao township in the central Suphan Buri province, sending shockwaves through the community.
While the immediate aftermath witnessed the loss of 18 lives, authorities, including the police, were still in the process of confirming the official death toll. Police Colonel Theerapoj Rawangban expressed the ongoing efforts to ascertain the exact number of casualties, stating, "There were deaths; we are checking how many people died." The situation remained fluid, with the severity of the incident yet to be fully determined.
Mysterious blast
The explosion, shrouded in uncertainty, lacked a clear indication of its cause. Authorities were grappling with the task of unraveling the circumstances that led to the tragic incident.
Despite the devastation at the fireworks factory, there was a fortunate lack of additional damage to nearby houses or the surrounding community, according to Police Colonel Theerapoj Rawangban.
Disturbing images shared by the local rescue service depicted a grim scene, with metal debris scattered across the ground. A towering plume of black smoke billowed into the sky, serving as a visual testament to the severity of the explosion. The local community found itself grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event.
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Explosions in workshops engaged in the production of firecrackers and pyrotechnics are sadly not uncommon in Thailand. Last year, a similar incident occurred in Sungai Kolok town in southern Narathiwat province, resulting in 10 deaths and over 100 injuries. The recurrence of such incidents raises concerns about safety measures within the industry.
Beyond the pyrotechnic industry, Thailand grapples with broader safety challenges, particularly in the construction sector. The nation has a lamentable safety record, and fatal accidents are regrettably frequent.
(With inputs from agencies)
