Fire breaks out at Thai construction site after deadly crane collapse

Fire breaks out at Thai construction site after deadly crane collapse

SAMUT SAKHON, Jan 20, 2026 — A fire broke out on Tuesday at a construction site along Bangkok’s Rama II Road where a crane collapse earlier this month killed two people, prompting renewed safety concerns at the long-delayed infrastructure project, authorities said.

The blaze erupted late in the morning at two points within the site, sending thick black smoke into the air and causing panic among workers and nearby residents. Firefighters and rescue teams swiftly cordoned off the area and brought the fire under control. No injuries or fatalities were reported.

Preliminary assessments indicate the fire may have been caused when falling materials damaged a hydraulic system, leading to an oil leak that ignited upon contact with heated metal structures. Officials said an investigation is under way to determine the exact cause and to reassess the site’s structural safety to prevent further incidents.

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The incident comes days after Thailand’s prime minister expressed frustration over repeated accidents linked to construction along Rama II Road, a major transport artery connecting Bangkok to the south, and ordered an emergency review of safety oversight and accountability.