Crane Collapse Derails Train in Thailand, Killing Dozens
Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, 14 January 2026 – A passenger train derailed in northeastern Thailand after a construction crane fell onto its carriages, killing at least 27 people and injuring 79 others. The incident occurred in the Sikhio district of Nakhon Ratchasima province, about 230km northeast of Bangkok.
Incident Details
The accident happened around 09:00 local time when the train, travelling from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani province, was struck by a crane working on a high-speed rail project. The crane’s collapse caused three carriages to derail, slicing through one and starting a fire. Rescue operations were underway, with authorities pausing efforts due to chemical leakage at the scene. Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn reported 195 people on board and ordered an investigation into the cause.
Local resident Mitr Intrpanya described hearing a loud noise followed by explosions, witnessing the crane resting on the train with smoke billowing from the wreckage. The high-speed rail initiative, backed by China as part of the Belt and Road Initiative, aims to connect Bangkok to Nong Khai on the Laos border by 2028.
Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Sikhio district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, Thailand |
| Date and Time | 14 January 2026, around 09:00 local time |
| Casualties | At least 27 killed, 79 injured |
| Cause | Construction crane collapse onto the train |
| Project Context | China-backed high-speed rail network (Belt and Road Initiative) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the train derailment?
The derailment was triggered by a construction crane falling onto the train’s carriages during work on a high-speed rail project. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact reason for the crane’s collapse.
How many people were on the train?
Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn stated there were 195 passengers on board the train at the time of the incident.
What is the Belt and Road Initiative’s role here?
The accident occurred at a site linked to China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which funds a 600km high-speed railway to connect Thailand to Laos and eventually China, aiming to boost regional trade and connectivity.