Thailand crane fall onto passenger train kills and injures dozens

A launching gantry crane fell onto a moving passenger train in Nakhon Ratchasima, killing at least 32 people and injuring 64; authorities have opened an investigation and the Railway Department says it plans legal action against the contractor.

Officials report that a construction launching gantry crane fell onto a moving passenger train on an elevated section in Nakhon Ratchasima on Wednesday. The incident resulted in at least 32 deaths and 64 injuries, and three passengers were reported missing among about 171 people believed to have been on board. The affected segment is part of a Thai‑Chinese high‑speed rail project. Transport authorities said they have ordered an investigation and the Railway Department announced plans to pursue legal action against the contractor. Key points: - A launching gantry crane fell onto a passenger train travelling from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani in Nakhon Ratchasima. - Provincial health officials reported 32 fatalities, 64 injured (including several seriously), and three people missing; about 171 passengers were on the train. - The collapsed elevated section is part of a Thai‑Chinese high‑speed rail project; Italian‑Thai Development is the main contractor and a Chinese firm handled design supervision. - Authorities have opened an investigation and the Railway Department said it will take legal action; the contractor posted condolences and said it would provide compensation and cover hospitalization costs. Summary: The crash has focused attention on safety and oversight for the high‑speed rail project and related construction work. Investigations are ongoing and the Railway Department has announced legal steps toward the contractor; further developments are undetermined at this time.