Blaze Engulfs Khao Yoi Plastic Bag Factory for Third Time

Pictures courtesy of Daily News.

A major fire broke out at a food-grade plastic bag manufacturing factory in Khao Yoi District, Phetchaburi Province, marking the third serious blaze at the facility in recent years. Authorities are now trying to determine the cause.

The fire erupted at 07:30, on 7 August, at the Universal Flexible Packaging Co., Ltd. factory in Nong Chumphon Subdistrict. Pol Lt Col Sompong Khamthawee, an investigator from Khao Yoi Police Station, received the alert and promptly informed Pol Col Thip Khengkhoom, the station superintendent, as well as district chief Mr Naruenat Muangsaen.

Multiple fire engines from nearby districts, along with disaster response teams, local administrative bodies and volunteer rescue workers, were deployed to the scene.

Upon arrival, emergency teams were met with an intense inferno. Thick black smoke billowed from the building, which contained flammable chemicals such as thinner and industrial alcohol used in the plastic production process. These substances acted as accelerants, fuelling the flames and making the blaze especially aggressive.

To access the core of the fire, crews brought in a backhoe to break through parts of the factory walls, allowing water and foam to be sprayed directly into the burning structure. Despite the intensive firefighting efforts, the fire was still is not under control after 5 hours.

This incident marks the third time the factory has suffered a serious fire. Previous blazes also caused extensive damage, raising questions about fire safety measures and operational practices at the site.

Pol Col Thip Khengkhoom confirmed that a full investigation is underway. “The factory has experienced multiple fires, each severe in nature,” he said. “We will conduct a thorough inquiry to determine the cause. If criminal negligence or foul play is found, legal action will be taken.”

  Adapted by Asean Now from Daily News 2025-08-07