A catastrophic construction crane collapse in central Thailand has left at least 22 people dead and dozens more injured after it smashed into a moving passenger train.
Details of the Deadly Derailment
The tragic incident occurred on the morning of Wednesday, 14 January 2026. A crane, which was being used for a rail construction project, toppled onto an intercity train travelling from the capital, Bangkok, to Ubon Ratchathani province in the country's north-east.
The collision happened at approximately 9am in the Sikhio district of Nakhon Ratchasima province, a region located roughly 230 kilometres (143 miles) north-east of Bangkok. The force of the impact caused the train to derail and reports indicate a fire briefly broke out in the aftermath.
Casualty Figures and Immediate Aftermath
Police have confirmed the devastating death toll of 22 fatalities. In addition, 79 people sustained injuries, eight of whom are reported to be in a severe condition. Authorities estimated the train was carrying around 195 passengers based on its seating plan, though the exact number on board may vary.
Photographs released by the Nakhon Ratchasima provincial government reveal the scale of the destruction. One carriage is shown tipped onto its side, with the upper section extensively scorched by fire and the rear severely damaged. Debris from the wreckage was scattered along the railway line.
Calls for Investigation and Official Response
The disaster has prompted a high-level response from the Thai government. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Phipat Ratchakitprakarn, has demanded authorities launch a "thorough and comprehensive investigation" to determine the precise cause of the crane's failure.
This major train accident near Bangkok represents one of the worst rail disasters in Thailand in recent years, raising urgent questions about safety protocols on active construction projects adjacent to operational railway lines.
