A tour bus transporting 35 sixth-grade students caught fire on Khlong Aeng-Bo Rai Road in Bo Phloi Subdistrict, Bo Rai District, Trat Province, on the evening of March 24. All students were safely evacuated before the flames engulfed the vehicle.
According to bus driver Methi Phosri, 49, the incident occurred while returning from a field trip to Ao Thammachat in Laem Ngop District. The students first noticed that the air conditioning had stopped functioning and reported a burning smell. Upon pulling over, Methi saw smoke billowing from the rear of the vehicle. Acting quickly, he opened all emergency exits and doors, ensuring every student was safely evacuated before the fire intensified.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire. Initial findings suggest that an electrical short in the cooling fan of the air conditioning system may have triggered the blaze.
Local emergency responders arrived at the scene to extinguish the fire, but the bus was severely damaged. Officials have emphasized the importance of regular vehicle maintenance, particularly for school transport, to prevent similar incidents.
