Bus-train collision in Thailand leaves at least 20 dead, dozens hurt
- Collision occurred when tour bus with 65 passengers crossed railway tracks during rain
- Passengers were travelling to a Buddhist temple 80km east of Bangkok
At least 20 people died early Sunday when a train collided with a bus in central Thailand, officials said.
The tour bus was travelling with 65 passengers on board when it crossed the railway track during rain in Chacheongsao province, 80km (50 miles) east of Bangkok, where a train smashed into the vehicle.
Prathueng Yookassem, the district chief officer, told Thailand’s PBS TV that as well as the dead at least 30 were injured.
“It was raining, perhaps, the driver did not see the train,” he said.
All of the injured were brought to two hospitals. Police say they are investigating.
The bus passengers were travelling from Samut Prakan province to a Buddhist temple in Chachoengsao for a merit-making ceremony.
Early images by rescue workers showed gnarled metal and debris, with bodies lying by the train tracks and people’s belongings scattered.