BANGKOK, Thailand – A massive fire engulfed the Khlong Thom Center, a well-known shopping complex specialising in electronics and tools, on Worachak Road in Bangkok’s Pom Prap Sattru Phai district on Friday night, with firefighters struggling to bring the blaze under control nearly three hours after it started as the building faced the risk of collapse.

Bangkok pub fire death toll rises to 41

Fire and rescue agencies were alerted to the blaze at 8:42 p.m. and immediately dispatched firefighters, volunteers, and rescue workers to the scene, but flames and heavy smoke continued to billow from the first floor where shops are located.

The fire later spread to a mezzanine level beneath the parking area at approximately 9:10 p.m., with flames reported across a large area of the building, and explosions were heard intermittently as the fire continued to burn. At about 9:27 p.m., flames had also begun to appear at the rear of the building, while explosions continued to be heard, and by 9:35 p.m., parts of the building’s interior had begun to collapse, raising serious concerns over the safety of firefighters and rescue workers at the scene.

According to Fire & Rescue Thailand’s Facebook page, the building was at risk of collapsing, prompting authorities to take precautions to protect emergency personnel. The Khlong Thom Center is a popular destination for shoppers seeking electronics, tools, and various consumer goods, and the fire has caused extensive damage to the structure and its contents.

Couple and 30 cats perish in Nonthaburi house fire

The cause of the fire remains unknown, and authorities have not yet indicated when the blaze might be brought under control. Nearby residents and businesses have been advised to stay clear of the area as firefighting operations continue, and the full extent of the damage and potential loss of life has yet to be assessed.

-Thailand News (TN)