SAMUT SAKHON — Thick black smoke billowed over Rama II Road on Tuesday morning after a fire ignited at the site of last week’s deadly crane collapse, heightening concerns over safety along one of Thailand’s most accident-prone highways. The blaze broke out around 11 a.m. near the Paris Hotel in Samut Sakhon, temporarily disrupting traffic and drawing emergency crews to the scene.

Crane Collapse on Rama II Road in Bangkok, Kills Two

Social media footage showed dark plumes rising from the wreckage as firefighters worked to contain the flames. Preliminary reports suggest the fire may have started during cleanup operations, possibly sparked by cutting equipment being used to clear steel debris. Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause and are investigating.

This is the same location where a crane collapse earlier this month struck a passing train, killing dozens and injuring many more. The incident prompted a national outcry, a transport ministry inquiry, and compensation payouts to victims’ families exceeding 1.5 million baht each.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul had previously ordered a full review of construction safety protocols following the collapse, which involved Italian-Thai Development, the same contractor linked to Tuesday’s fire. The recurrence of an emergency at the exact site has intensified public scrutiny over regulation and oversight on major infrastructure projects.

Pickup Truck Plunges Into Sinkhole on Rama II Road in Samut Sakhon

Fire crews successfully extinguished the blaze and are monitoring the area. Further updates are expected as officials complete their inspection amid growing calls for stronger enforcement of safety standards on Rama II Road.

-Thailand News (TN)