Accident Human Error Blamed for Deadly Rama III Expressway Collapse

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Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

The catastrophic beam collapse on the Rama III–Dao Khanong–Outer Ring Road Expressway on March 15 has been attributed to human error, according to the Expressway Authority of Thailand (Exat). The tragic incident resulted in the loss of five lives and injured 22 others, occurring near the Dao Khanong toll plaza on the expressway project’s Contract 3 section. This particular section stretches five kilometres, from Bangpakok 9 International Hospital to the toll plaza. The project, valued at approximately 7.3 billion baht, involves a joint venture between Italian-Thai Development Plc and Vichitbhan Construction Co.

 

An investigation led by the Engineering Institute of Thailand (EIT) confirmed the construction adhered to established engineering standards. The ground conditions were stable, and the quality of steel used was satisfactory, ruling out technical or structural deficiencies. The investigation pinpointed human error during the construction as the primary cause for the collapse.

 

The investigation report was submitted to Exat Governor Surachet Laopoolsuk, who plans to pass it on to Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit shortly. Details will also be provided to the police for further legal examination.

 

While the contractor bears responsibility for financial damages, Exat clarified that current laws restrict the agency from pursuing legal action unless the contractor abandons the project. However, Exat is planning to implement a contractor performance tracking system. This system will log such incidents and potentially affect future project eligibility for contractors involved in mishaps.

 

To address the financial repercussions, a newly formed committee will evaluate the damages and compensation requirements. This includes assessing the loss of toll revenue due to the closure of inbound lanes for nearly a week and outbound lanes for almost a month, with estimated losses close to one million baht daily. The committee, comprising financial and legal experts, aims to conclude its assessment within two weeks.

 

In an unrelated incident on Wednesday, a motorist reported pieces of concrete from the expressway falling onto their vehicle, causing damage to both the front and rear windscreens, further highlighting safety concerns on Thailand’s roads.

 

This series of incidents not only underscores the importance of stringent oversight and rigorous adherence to safety protocols in construction projects but also demands swift action to prevent future tragedies. The authorities’ swift response and commitment to improving contractor accountability are crucial steps in upholding infrastructure safety standards.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-23