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UPDATE Bangkok Governor Orders Fire Safety Inspections Across Hotels and Entertainment Venues

Picture from responders Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has urged citizens to prioritise locating fire escape routes while celebrating the New Year and has ordered all districts to conduct inspections of hotels and entertainment venues following a deadly hotel fire on Tanin Road in Phra Nakhon district. The fire, which broke out on the fifth floor of The Amber Hotel at 21:20 on December 29, resulted in three fatalities and seven injuries. Four individuals suffered smoke inhalation and were rushed to hospital. Emergency teams used three aerial ladders to rescue 34 people who had fled to the rooftop. The hotel housed a total of 75 guests at the time. Governor Chadchart and Deputy Governor Wisanu Subsompon visited the site on December 30 to assess the situation. He revealed that The Amber Hotel spans 1,515 square metres and had submitted proper building permits, though further investigations are required to verify compliance. “Initial inspections show the hotel has fire escape staircases, but we need to ensure they meet all legal requirements. There were fire alarm systems, but it’s unclear if they functioned properly during the incident. Escape routes must be accessible, clearly marked, and equipped with functional fire extinguishers,” said Chadchart. The Governor instructed all district offices to intensify checks on fire safety measures in hotels and entertainment venues, emphasising that small hotels, those with fewer than 80 rooms, can pose significant risks as they are often excluded from stricter fire safety regulations introduced in 2023 for larger buildings. The investigation, which includes structural assessments by the Department of Public Works and experts from the Engineering Institute of Thailand, is underway. Preliminary reports suggest the building did not sustain structural damage, but the exact cause of the fire remains undetermined. Chadchart highlighted the need to enforce fire safety regulations more rigorously and to address gaps in existing laws, particularly for smaller establishments. “We must learn from incidents like this to improve regulations, including the control of toxic materials in buildings,” he said. To restore public confidence, the Governor stressed two priorities: ensuring thorough inspections of fire safety systems and providing full support to victims. “Even though it’s addressing the problem after the fact, we are doing our best to help those affected,” he stated. Chadchart also noted that intoxicated tourists may face difficulties evacuating during emergencies, which highlights the need for vigilance in entertainment venues. He advised hotel operators to ensure fire escape routes are unobstructed and that staff are adequately trained in emergency procedures. He urged the public to be proactive during the festive season: “Before you stay anywhere, check the fire escape routes. If you encounter a fire, always call 199 first to alert the fire department before attempting to extinguish the flames yourself. Early notification gives responders a better chance to contain the fire quickly.” Related Article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347470-hotel-fire-near-khao-san-road-leaves-3-dead-many-rescued-from-roof/ -- 2024-12-31

Thief Caught After Motorcycle Robbery, Crashes in Attempted Escape A 25-year-old man was swiftly arrested after attempting to steal a woman’s handbag in Bangkok. The thief, identified as Nattawut, failed to get far after his motorcycle collided with a passing vehicle, causing him to fall and injure himself. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347552-thief-caught-after-motorcycle-robbery-crashes-in-attempted-escape/

Picture of arrest A 25-year-old man was swiftly arrested on December 30, after attempting to steal a woman’s handbag in Bangkok. The thief, identified as Nattawut, failed to get far after his motorcycle collided with a passing vehicle, causing him to fall and injure himself. The incident occurred at 13:15 near the entrance to Soi Phaholyothin 61, in the district of Bang Khen. According to the victim, she was unlocking her bicycle parked under a pedestrian bridge when the suspect, riding a blue Honda Wave motorcycle, suddenly snatched her handbag. Nattawut quickly tried to escape with the bag, but collided with another motorcycle, losing control and crashing. He sustained head injuries and was left bleeding on the ground before being apprehended by officers and bystanders. During questioning, Nattawut admitted to snatching the handbag after spotting the victim at the bicycle rack. He said he believed she was carrying a large sum of money due to the bag’s appearance. The victim, a woman who had been parked at the location to buy something, recalled that she had locked her bicycle under the bridge before returning to unlock it. She was caught off guard when the thief approached from behind and snatched her bag. She struggled to regain control of the bag, but the thief overpowered her. She added that after the suspect fled, he was struck by an oncoming motorcycle and fell, allowing for his capture. The victim later explained that she had been a victim of a similar robbery years ago in the same area, and although she gave up her bag that time, she advised others, especially women travelling alone, to remain vigilant. Authorities are continuing to question Nattawut and are examining his criminal history to determine if he has committed similar offences in the past. He is currently facing charges of robbery and will be processed by the Bang Khen Police for further legal proceedings. -- 2024-12-31

Fifteen Homes Destroyed in Pathum Thani Fire A devastating fire swept through the Sirisaphan community along the Rangsit-Prayoonsak Canal in Pathum Thani’s Thanyaburi, destroying more than 15 homes and leaving one person with minor injuries. Emergency services are now investigating the cause of the blaze and assisting those affected. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347551-fifteen-homes-destroyed-in-pathum-thani-fire/

Picture from responders. A devastating fire swept through the Sirisaphan community along the Rangsit-Prayoonsak Canal in Pathum Thani’s Thanyaburi district on December 30, destroying more than 15 homes and leaving one person with minor injuries. Emergency services are now investigating the cause of the blaze and assisting those affected. The fire, which broke out in the densely packed wooden construction community, posed significant challenges to emergency responders. Large fire trucks were unable to access the narrow alleys, forcing firefighters and residents to battle the flames for over an hour before gaining control of the situation. The incident prompted a multi-agency response, with fire trucks and personnel deployed from Rangsit Municipality and neighbouring localities, including Lak Hok Subdistrict and Bueng Yitho Municipality. Ronnakorn Phawijan, the district chief of Thanyaburi, stated that initial assessments suggest that more than 15 households have been affected. The exact number of families displaced by the fire is still being determined. The Rangsit Municipality has established a temporary shelter for those who lost their homes at the site of the Government Savings Bank near Prachathipat School. Sanitation trucks and other facilities have been brought in to provide basic necessities for the displaced residents. Police Lieutenant Panumas Naksuk, an investigator with the Pratunam Chulalongkorn Police Station, confirmed that two witnesses have been brought in for questioning to determine the fire’s cause. Authorities are focusing on identifying the house where the blaze started and will evaluate the overall damage in the coming days. While no fatalities have been reported, local authorities are urging residents to exercise caution and follow fire safety guidelines, particularly in high-density areas where the risk of rapid fire spread is heightened. The municipality has pledged to provide support for affected families, with further plans for assistance to be outlined once the full extent of the damage is assessed. -- 2024-12-31

Five killed in Prachinburi factory concrete slab collapse By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic incident unfolded in Prachinburi province when a concrete slab collapsed in a factory located in the 304 Industrial Park, resulting in the loss of five lives with no survivors. The collapse occurred today, December 30, causing widespread alarm among workers and residents in the area. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347532-five-killed-in-prachinburi-factory-concrete-slab-collapse/

Thailand's EXPRESSWAY Authority to Enforce Tougher Penalties on Unpaid Tolls File photo for reference only Starting January 1, 2025, Thailand's Expressway Authority (EXAT) will impose stricter penalties for unpaid tolls. If a driver doesn't pay a toll, they could face fines up to ten times the toll fee, capped at 2,000 baht per event. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347533-thailands-expressway-authority-to-enforce-tougher-penalties-on-unpaid-tolls/

NACC denies lobbying claims in Thaksin hospital case investigation By Ryan Turner Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, with, his daughter Paetongtarn | Photo via AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) firmly denies any lobbying efforts aimed at altering the commissioner overseeing the investigation into former premier Thaksin Shinawatra’s detention at a police hospital. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347530-nacc-denies-lobbying-claims-in-thaksin-hospital-case-investigation/

Bangkok Taxi Driver Accused of Drugging and Robbing Woman File photo for reference only A 47-year-old Thai tour guide, Angkana "Oil" Rungpaisarn, claims she was drugged and robbed by a taxi driver during a late-night ride in Bangkok on December 26. After a night out drinking with friends at a bar on Soi Sukhumvit 11, Oil woke up injured and without her valuables on the roadside near Soi Sukhumvit 81. The amount stolen has not been disclosed. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347535-bangkok-taxi-driver-accused-of-drugging-and-robbing-woman/

Thai Minibus Driver Arrested for Rape After Passenger's Complaint Photo: The Thaiger A minibus driver in Thailand, 36-year-old Montri, was arrested today after allegedly raping a 19-year-old passenger during a trip from Bangkok to the Isaan province of Surin. The victim's mother reported the assault, which occurred at Montri's home at around 4 a.m. on December 21. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347536-thai-minibus-driver-arrested-for-rape-after-passengers-complaint/

Russian man arrested for rampage and knife attack at Phuket hotel By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Police arrested a Russian man who went on a violent rampage at a hotel in the Choeng Thale area of Phuket, physically assaulting other hotel guests and Thai police officers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347537-russian-man-arrested-for-rampage-and-knife-attack-at-phuket-hotel/

This is the incident being referred to; Jeju B738 at Seoul on Dec 30th 2024, landing gear problem on departure. A Jeju Air Boeing 737-800, registration HL8090 performing flight 7C-101 from Seoul Gimpo to Jeju Island (South Korea) with 161 people on board, was climbing out of Gimpo's runway 14L when the crew levelled off at 5000 feet and decided to return to Gimpo Airport due to a problem with the landing gear. The aircraft landed safely on runway 14R about 35 minutes after departure. .The airline stated that the crew received indication of a possible landing gear problem, however, the landing gear functioned normally. The aircraft is being examined and the aircraft remains on the ground. .

South Korea's Ministry of Transport reported on December 30, that the flight data recorder was recovered but has been damaged, it is unclear at the moment whether the data are intact. The recorder has been taken to Seoul where analysis begins as soon as the team of NTSB and Boeing has arrived. The Ministry also released following time line of events: 8:54L: Muan airport air traffic control clears the aircraft to land on runway 01 8:57L: Air traffic control broadcasts “caution - bird activity” advisory. 8:59L: Flight 7C-2216 pilot reports bird strike, declares emergency “Mayday Mayday Mayday” and “Bird strike, bird strike, go-around.” 9:00L: Flight 7C2216 initiates a go-around and requests authorisation to land on runway 19, which is by approach from the opposite end of the airport’s single runway. 9:01L: Air traffic control clears the aircraft to land on runway 19. 9:02L: Flight 7C-2216 touches down on the runway about 1,200m (3940 feet) down on the 2,800m (9184 feet) long runway. 9:02:34L: Air traffic control alerts “crash alarm” at airport fire rescue unit. 9:02:55L: Airport fire rescue unit deploying fire rescue appliances. 9:03L: Flight 7C-2216 crashes into embankment after over-shooting the runway. 9:10L: The transport ministry receives an accident report from airport authorities. 9:23L: One male rescued and transported to a temporary medical facility. 9:38L: Muan airport is closed. 9:50L: Rescue completed of a second person from inside tail section of the plane.

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 31 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1347542-thailand-live-tuesday-31-december-2024/

The only record of this plane , Hl8088, making an emergency landing was on December 27 and had nothing to do with the aircraft itself. South Korea’s EKN (Energy Economic News), confirmed that the Jeju Air flight 7C8135 on Boeing aircraft HL8088 departed from Jeju International Airport at 11:51 local time and was scheduled to pass over the West Sea, Yantai, and Tianjin, but turned toward Incheon International Airport at 12:55 local time, before entering mainland China. Subsequently, at 13:15 local time, the captain declared an emergency and squawked “7700,” a transponder code signalling that an aircraft is experiencing a general emergency and requires immediate assistance from air traffic control (ATC). The Incheon International Airport Police Investigation Division told EKN, “There was a Chinese passenger who complained of head and chest pain.” A Jeju Air representative added, “the said passenger lost consciousness at the time, prompting the emergency landing.” . During this process, the cabin crew’s first aid efforts helped the passenger regain consciousness. The aircraft landed at Incheon International Airport at 1:28 local time and the passenger was transferred to a hospital. EKN also reported that at 15:39 local time HL8088 took off again from Incheon Airport and arrived at Daxing Airport at 16:33 local time.

Can I clarify, what the Bangkok governor said was it did not require sprinklers under current regulations, because of its size, same as similar regulations around the world. It also had a fire alarm system fitted, but they are not sure if it was functional. Also remember a hotel fire alarm may have heat detector in bedrooms, hence a longer delay in activation once a fire has started. I posted earlier, my questions are why the passive, structural fire safety design measures and compartmentation failed. This was a single room fire, contained in one room and the fire is reported to have possibly started in the bed area in a room which was unoccupied at the time. The design should never allow for smoke to block two exit routes and staircases, like it did here. The investigation will look into the cause, plus it needs to look at what changes in design have been made since the original plans were made. 3 deaths from smoke caused by a small fire, within a hotel which has alternative means of escape is a failure caused by a either or a combination of changes made to the layout, changes to passive fire safety fittings, doors, glass or poor maintenance or safety standards, such as poor fitting fire doors or the practise of securing fire doors in an open position.

UPDATE Bangkok Hotel Fire latest The fire originated in Room 511 on the fifth floor, although the exact cause remains under investigation. The hotel, which opened in April 2022, had two fire exits and was equipped with fire extinguishers and standard alarm systems. However, being a relatively small structure, it was not required to install sprinkler systems under current regulations. The fire resulted in the deaths of three individuals: 1. Ms. Pimentel Canales Albuquerque, 24, a Brazilian national, perished in Room 511. She had been staying with her fiancé in Room 502 and had recently been proposed to. 2. Mr. Tuzov Victor, 27, a Ukrainian national, succumbed to his injuries at Vajira Hospital . 3. Mr. Freeman Jr. Timothy, 35, an American national, died at Samitivej Chinatown Hospital. The hotel was accommodating 75 guests at the time of the incident. Thirty-four individuals were rescued from the rooftop using fire service ladders, while others evacuated through lower-floor exits. Tragically, the Brazilian victim became separated from her fiancé while escaping through thick smoke. It is believed she inadvertently entered Room 511, mistaking it for an exit, where she ultimately lost her life. The fiancé managed to reach the third floor before leaping to safety from the building’s rear, sustaining injuries in the process. The room where the fire began was occupied by three South Korean men who were not present during the incident. Authorities are actively seeking their cooperation for further investigation, including reviewing CCTV footage to establish the fire’s cause. Preliminary assessments by the Thai Structural Engineers Association revealed no significant impact on the building’s structure. Damage was confined to the interior of Room 511, with the bed identified as the most severely affected area. List of Casualties Fatalities Ms. Pimentel Canales Albuquerque, 24, Brazilian, died at the scene (Room 511). Mr. Tuzov Victor, 27, Ukrainian, died at Vajira Hospital. Mr. Freeman Jr. Timothy, 35, American, died at Samitivej Chinatown Hospital. Injuries 1. Mr. Sarawut Liwmai (Thai), hotel electrician, minor injuries, treated at Vajira Hospital. 2. Mr. Marvin Holtkamp (Dutch), minor injuries, treated at Thonburi Bamrungmuang Hospital. 3. Ms. Nadine Hueftlein (Dutch), back pain and leg numbness, treated at Thonburi Bamrungmuang Hospital. 4. Unnamed female foreigner, suffering from smoke inhalation, treated at Vajira Hospital. The authorities continue to work closely with forensic experts and diplomatic representatives to contact the families of the victims. -- 2024-12-30

Fully agree with you, but can I just clarify that the term non-flammable in the context of UNECE Regulation UN R118 refers to materials that do not ignite or support combustion under specific test conditions outlined in the regulation. UN R118 establishes safety standards primarily for interior materials used in road vehicles, particularly buses and coaches, to reduce fire hazards. Under UN R118, materials must meet specific criteria for flame propagation, melting behavior, and other fire resistance properties. The regulation defines tests such as: 1. Horizontal Burning Rate Test: Determines whether a material burns and how quickly the flame propagates horizontally. 2. Vertical Burning Rate Test: Assesses whether flames spread vertically on a material and at what rate. 3. Dripping Test: Examines whether molten material drips and ignites other surfaces. A material classified as non-flammable would typically not ignite, propagate flames, or produce flaming droplets during these tests, ensuring it meets the stringent safety requirements of UN R118. This classification is critical for vehicle interiors to enhance passenger safety in the event of a fire. This allows passengers to safety evacuate the bus, but in a fully developed fire the material will burn.

UPDATE Three Foreign Tourists Dead in Khao San Road Hotel Fire Identified Bangkok authorities have identified the nationalities of three foreign tourists who tragically died in a hotel fire near Khao San Road on the night of December 29. The victims were a Brazilian woman, a Ukrainian man, and an American man. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347470-hotel-fire-near-khao-san-road-leaves-3-dead-many-rescued-from-roof/page/2/#findComment-19480176

UPDATE Three Foreign Tourists Dead in Khao San Road Hotel Fire Identified Bangkok authorities have identified the nationalities of three foreign tourists who tragically died in a hotel fire near Khao San Road on the night of December 29. The victims were a Brazilian woman, a Ukrainian man, and an American man. The Brazilian victim, recently engaged to her boyfriend, tragically lost her life after re-entering the building. According to reports, she became separated from her fiancé during the chaotic escape and was found in room 511, where she apparently sought refuge. Her fiancé survived the blaze but was left devastated by her death. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt stated that the hotel had two fire escapes but lacked a sprinkler system. The absence of sprinklers complied with local regulations, as the building was too small to require such safety measures under current laws. The incident has raised concerns about fire safety in smaller accommodations, with officials urging stricter regulations to prevent similar tragedies. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the fire and assess whether any negligence contributed to the loss of life. -- 2024-12-30

It was the term reported used by the minister and reported in the Korean English language media.

Day 3 Sees Ramps Up New Year Road Safety Measures with Strict Alcohol Checks and Penalties Authorities are stepping up road safety efforts during the New Year celebrations, with stricter enforcement of traffic laws and alcohol checks across the country. Measures include adjusted checkpoint locations near major event venues and harsh penalties for offenders, especially underage drink drivers. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347516-day-3-sees-ramps-up-new-year-road-safety-measures-with-strict-alcohol-checks-and-penalties/

Authorities are stepping up road safety efforts during the New Year celebrations, with stricter enforcement of traffic laws and alcohol checks across the country. Measures include adjusted checkpoint locations near major event venues and harsh penalties for offenders, especially underage drink drivers. At a press briefing on December 30, Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, Minister of Justice, reported that most people have already reached their holiday destinations and are now participating in New Year’s Eve festivities. However, the increased gatherings raise the risk of drink-driving-related crashes. The Ministry of Justice, in collaboration with the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), has ordered enhanced alcohol testing and traffic monitoring to prevent accidents. Special attention is being paid to drivers under the age of 20. Offenders in this age group will not only face maximum legal penalties but will also trigger investigations targeting alcohol vendors, enablers, and guardians. Mobile alcohol vendors operating near event venues will also face intensified scrutiny. Over the past three days (27–29 December), authorities have handled 1,763 traffic cases, including drink-driving offences. In four cases, electronic monitoring (EM) devices have been issued. Offenders found to have alcohol addiction issues will be sent to rehabilitation centres. Mr. Chettha Mosikarat, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, has instructed provincial authorities to intensify enforcement across all sectors, including police, military, and community groups. Additional checkpoints have been set up along secondary routes, village roads, and main highways to monitor risky behaviour, such as speeding, drink-driving, and failure to use safety equipment. High-risk areas, including routes near tourist hotspots, entertainment venues, and New Year event locations, will be prioritised. Local authorities are also working to raise public awareness of traffic laws and the consequences of violations. Deputy Director of the DDPM, Mr. Saharat Wongsakulwiwat, highlighted weather-related risks in southern provinces, including Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, Pattani, and Narathiwat, which are experiencing rain and slippery roads. Northern and northeastern provinces are facing cold conditions, particularly on mountain peaks. Drivers in these regions are advised to use fog lights and avoid high-risk roads. As part of the “Safe Driving, Zero Accidents” campaign, the DDPM reported 280 road accidents on 29 December alone, resulting in 269 injuries and 47 fatalities. Speeding accounted for 38.57% of accidents, while drink-driving was the cause in 23.21%. Motorcycles were involved in 82.98% of incidents. Most accidents occurred on straight roads (82.14%) between 16:01 and 17:00. The majority of victims were aged 20–29 years (22.47%). Key statistics for 29 December include: • Provinces with the highest accidents: Surat Thani (12 incidents) • Provinces with the most injuries: Lopburi and Surat Thani (10 each) • Province with the most fatalities: Sakon Nakhon (4 deaths) Related article: 93 Dead, 575 Injured in Two Days of New Year Road Crashes: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347449-93-dead-575-injured-in-two-days-of-new-year-road-crashes/ Cumulatively, from 27–29 December, there have been 872 accidents, 841 injuries, and 143 fatalities. Ayutthaya recorded the highest number of accidents (35), while Bangkok reported the most fatalities (7). Nineteen provinces have achieved zero fatalities during this period. -- 2024-12-30

The statement was made by Joo Jong-wan, aviation policy chief at the Ministry of Transport, at a press briefing this morning. I would suggest he has a better information and data, than basing an assumption on a few Youtube videos!