BANGKOK, Thailand – A devastating explosion at a fireworks factory in central Thailand has resulted in the loss of at least 15 lives, according to a rescue worker from the Samerkun Suphan Buri Rescue Foundation. The exact number of casualties is still unclear, but it is estimated that between 15 to 17 people have been killed. Images shared by local rescue workers show the factory site leveled flat, with only debris and body parts visible in an otherwise empty rice field.
The cause of the explosion has not been determined, but it comes at a time when demand for fireworks is high, with Chinese New Year approaching in February. In July of last year, another explosion at a fireworks warehouse in southern Thailand resulted in at least 10 deaths and over 100 injuries, according to official reports. That explosion, located in a residential area, caused extensive damage to around 100 houses within a 1,640-foot radius.
The governor of Narathiwat province believes that last year’s blast was triggered by construction work in the warehouse, causing sparks from metal welding to ignite the fireworks stored inside, resulting in a catastrophic explosion. The recent incident has once again highlighted the dangers associated with the fireworks industry, raising questions about safety regulations and the handling of explosive materials.
The devastating impact of the explosion in Suphan Buri serves as a grim reminder of the risks involved in the fireworks industry, where safety measures and regulations are crucial to prevent such tragic incidents. As the investigation into the cause of the explosion unfolds, authorities will likely scrutinize safety protocols and regulations to prevent similar disasters in the future. The loss of life in these incidents underscores the need for strict oversight and proactive measures to ensure the safety of workers and communities in areas where fireworks are manufactured and stored.