Gas Leak in Taxi Near Thai-Lao Border, Averted Just in Time

[Georgealbert]

 

 

The situation unfolded at the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge border as a gas leak was detected in a Bangkok-registered taxi parked near the checkpoint. Thanks to the swift actions of authorities, the potential disaster was avoided before the gas ignited.

 

The incident occurred on October 5, when officials from the emergency radio centre 1669 in Nong Khai province were alerted to a strong smell of gas emanating from a vehicle parked at the Tha Udom market near the 1st Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, in Mueang Nong Khai District. Fearing the risk of fire or explosion, police coordinated with VR Nong Khai Rescue and the local fire department, deploying to the scene.

 

 

Upon arrival, authorities found the source of the leak, a green and yellow, Bangkok-registered taxi locked and parked amid several other vehicles in a lot primarily used by tourists traveling to Vientiane. The gas smell filled the area, prompting officers to spray water to suppress the fumes while they worked to open the vehicle’s doors and inspect the gas tank’s valve. The vehicle belonged to 57-year-old Mr. Jira from Nakhon Phanom province.

 

Panomphrai, the parking lot attendant, explained that the taxi is a regular at the facility, usually left there for two to three days at a time. He mentioned that around 18.00., a faint smell of gas was noticed, but its source remained unclear. Once the source was identified, authorities were immediately notified.
 

Panomphrai suggested that moving forward, safety protocols might need to be enhanced, potentially requiring gas-powered vehicles to be inspected or ensuring spare keys are available in case of emergencies.

 

Jaras Sudsith, a 1669 radio operator involved in the crisis response, stated that upon arrival, their primary challenge was determining the type of gas involved, which was quickly identified as LPG. Without access to the car’s owner, responders had to maintain safety by spraying water to dilute the vapour and prevent ignition. After some time, they were able to unlock the car and check the gas valve, finding it closed. However, residual gas in the area required further monitoring to ensure it was fully dissipated.

 

Thanks to the timely intervention, the situation was safely controlled, and no injuries or damages were reported.

 

Picture from responders.

 

-- 2024-10-06

 

 

[MikeandDow]

8 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

 

 

The situation unfolded at the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge border as a gas leak was detected in a Bangkok-registered taxi parked near the checkpoint. Thanks to the swift actions of authorities, the potential disaster was avoided before the gas ignited.

 

The incident occurred on October 5, when officials from the emergency radio centre 1669 in Nong Khai province were alerted to a strong smell of gas emanating from a vehicle parked at the Tha Udom market near the 1st Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, in Mueang Nong Khai District. Fearing the risk of fire or explosion, police coordinated with VR Nong Khai Rescue and the local fire department, deploying to the scene.

 

 

 

Upon arrival, authorities found the source of the leak, a green and yellow, Bangkok-registered taxi locked and parked amid several other vehicles in a lot primarily used by tourists traveling to Vientiane. The gas smell filled the area, prompting officers to spray water to suppress the fumes while they worked to open the vehicle’s doors and inspect the gas tank’s valve. The vehicle belonged to 57-year-old Mr. Jira from Nakhon Phanom province.

 

Panomphrai, the parking lot attendant, explained that the taxi is a regular at the facility, usually left there for two to three days at a time. He mentioned that around 18.00., a faint smell of gas was noticed, but its source remained unclear. Once the source was identified, authorities were immediately notified.
 

Panomphrai suggested that moving forward, safety protocols might need to be enhanced, potentially requiring gas-powered vehicles to be inspected or ensuring spare keys are available in case of emergencies.

 

Jaras Sudsith, a 1669 radio operator involved in the crisis response, stated that upon arrival, their primary challenge was determining the type of gas involved, which was quickly identified as LPG. Without access to the car’s owner, responders had to maintain safety by spraying water to dilute the vapour and prevent ignition. After some time, they were able to unlock the car and check the gas valve, finding it closed. However, residual gas in the area required further monitoring to ensure it was fully dissipated.

 

Thanks to the timely intervention, the situation was safely controlled, and no injuries or damages were reported.

 

Picture from responders.

 

-- 2024-10-06

 

 

Panomphrai suggested that moving forward, safety protocols might need to be enhanced,

WHAT SAFETY PROTOCOLS !!!! Thailand does not have any !!!