Pregnant Woman Evacuated by Backhoe After Flash Flood Destroys Bridge: Lampang

[Georgealbert]

 

 

Local authorities in Mae Phrik District, Lampang Province, used a backhoe to evacuate a heavily pregnant woman after a flash flood destroyed the only bridge connecting her village to the outside world. The woman, nine months pregnant and nearing her due date, was safely transported across the swollen stream to a hospital.

 

The incident occurred in Ban Huai Khinok, Mae Phrik Subdistrict, after heavy rains caused a flash flood at around 04:00 on October 4, which washed away the village’s bridge. The destroyed bridge left more than 250 residents from 108 households stranded, as it was the sole access route into and out of the village.

 

 

District Chief Piyawut Phithakboriban, who also heads the Mae Phrik Disaster Relief Centre, led the rescue team. As water levels in the Mae Phrik stream began to recede, the team deployed a backhoe to the site. Using the backhoe’s bucket, they transported 31-year-old Ms. Bum, who was nine months pregnant, to safety. She was then transferred to an ambulance and taken to Mae Phrik Hospital in preparation for her scheduled delivery on October 8.

 

The rescue operation saw the pregnant woman seated inside the backhoe’s bucket, which was carefully maneuvered across the stream by the driver. The successful evacuation was a collective effort involving local officials, volunteers, and the Mae Phrik rescue team.

 

Though the water levels are decreasing as the rains subside, the villagers remain isolated due to the destroyed bridge. Emergency machinery has been approved and is en route to the site, with construction on a temporary bridge expected to begin on October 6.

 

The backhoe was provided by Mr. Montri Thanasitsunthorn, the head of Mae Phrik Subdistrict, along with assistance from local authorities, police, rescue teams, and volunteers. Efforts are ongoing to deliver food and water to the stranded residents while bridge repairs are underway.

 

Picture courtesy of AmarinTV.

 

 

-- 2024-10-06