More than 20 children feared dead in school bus cash near Bangkok

Thai authorities say 16 children and three teachers managed to escape, while 22 pupils and three teachers missing

A devastating bus accident just outside Bangkok, Thailand, has left more than 20 children feared dead after the vehicle, carrying dozens of primary school students and teachers, crashed and caught fire.

The bus was returning from a school field trip in Uthai Thani, a northern province, when a tire burst, causing it to hit a barrier and ignite into flames.

According to Thai authorities, 16 children and three teachers managed to escape, while 22 pupils and three teachers remain unaccounted for. The bus, powered by compressed natural gas, was engulfed in flames shortly after the crash.

Emergency responders reported that extreme heat has hindered their ability to search the wreckage.

Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit expressed concerns over the use of compressed natural gas in vehicles, calling it "extremely risky" and suggesting a possible ban on such fuels in passenger buses.

"This is a very tragic incident," Juangroongruangkit stated, emphasizing the need for stricter safety measures.

Thailand's Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, confirmed fatalities from the crash but did not specify numbers. She expressed her sorrow for the families of the victims and promised that the government would cover medical expenses and provide compensation to the families of those who lost their lives.

Piyalak Thinkaew, the leader of the rescue operation, revealed that the fire started at the front of the bus, and most of the victims were found at the back, where they likely fled in an attempt to escape.

"Some of the bodies were very small," Thinkaew said, making it difficult to identify them.

Eight people who survived the crash were hospitalized with serious injuries, including burns.

Video footage from local media showed flames consuming the bus and thick black smoke filling the sky. The driver of the bus fled the scene but is being sought by authorities.

Thailand has a notorious reputation for road safety, with approximately 20,000 fatalities per year due to unsafe driving and vehicles.

The country’s road safety record is among the worst globally, with frequent reports of accidents involving buses and other public transportation.

This tragedy serves as a harsh reminder of the need for improved road safety regulations and stricter enforcement, especially for vehicles transporting children.