A section of the Rama II Road construction site in Thailand turned into a scene of tragedy early Monday morning when a launching gantry crane and precast concrete segments collapsed, killing four and injuring 10 others.
The incident occurred at 4:13 AM in tambon Khok Krabue, Samut Sakhon, at the Ekkachai – Ban Phaeo Intercity Motorway 82 (M82) project site.
Reports indicate that several workers fell during the collapse, with 25 individuals rescued from the area. Among them, four were confirmed dead, while ten sustained injuries, according to initial findings.
Samut Sakhon Governor Naris Niramaiwong advised motorists to avoid the area due to severe traffic congestion and suggested using Phet Kasem and Borommaratchachonnani roads as alternatives. “We will expedite the site clearance to restore traffic on Rama II Road as soon as possible,” he said.
Expressway lanes were fully closed, though some frontage lanes remained operational. Three mobile cranes were dispatched to clear debris, with their work expected to begin by 1 PM.
Rama II Road is a vital link between Bangkok and the southern provinces, including popular tourist destinations like Hua Hin. However, ongoing construction delays and mishaps have increased congestion and deterred travelers.
Construction accidents in the area are not new, with fatalities reported in previous incidents. This includes the death of a worker from a falling concrete slab in May last year and another fatality in January due to a sling failure.
