A construction crane collapsed onto a moving passenger train in Thailand on Wednesday, killing at least 22 people, AFP reported, citing police. The train was travelling from Thailand’s capital toward the country’s northeast when the accident occurred.

Accident Happens In Nakhon Ratchasima District

The incident took place on Wednesday morning in the Sikhio district of Nakhon Ratchasima province. The location lies about 230 kilometres northeast of Bangkok. Reports said the train was heading to Ubon Ratchathani province at the time of the crash.

Crane Hits Train During High-Speed Rail Work

According to local police, a crane operating at a high-speed rail construction site suddenly collapsed. As a result, it fell directly onto the passing train. Reuters quoted police as saying the impact forced the train off the tracks and caused it to briefly catch fire.

Fire Put Out As Rescue Efforts Begin

Soon after the crash, emergency teams reached the site and extinguished the fire. Meanwhile, police said rescue operations were underway as authorities worked to reach injured and trapped passengers inside the coaches.

Many Passengers Trapped Inside Coaches

Thailand’s government Public Relations Department shared details of the incident on its official X handle. It confirmed that several passengers were trapped following the derailment.

“Construction crane for high-speed rail bridge collapsed onto moving passenger train in Sikhiu, Nakhon Ratchasima this morning (14 Jan) at 9:05 am. Train derailed and caught fire. 30+ passengers injured, many trapped in carriages. Multiple rescue teams deployed,” the Thai government said.

Authorities Start Probe Into Cause

As rescue operations continue, authorities have also begun investigating the cause of the crane collapse. Officials are examining whether safety lapses during the high-speed rail project contributed to the deadly accident.