File photo for reference only

A spate of crane accidents at railway sites in Thailand has led Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn to suspend 13 construction projects by the responsible contractor. The immediate halt follows safety incidents in Sikhio, Nakhon Ratchasima, and on Rama 2 Road. The Minister has indicated intentions to terminate contracts and blacklist the contractor involved.

Two to three specialized committees have been established to investigate these occurrences, with a fact-finding report anticipated within seven days. Both incidents involved the same contracting company, raising concerns about potential negligence. "I have ordered the immediate suspension of the 13 remaining projects until the Ministry of Transport grants permission to resume, ensuring total safety," Phiphat declared. This decision reflects growing concerns about the frequency and severity of such incidents.

The Ministry of Transport is collaborating with the Comptroller General’s Department to legally terminate contracts and proceed with blacklisting. Phiphat clarified that this measure will be assessed on a project-by-project basis, avoiding a blanket ban on unrelated projects. Meanwhile, discussions with executives from Italian-Thai Development (ITD) are planned to address persistent safety issues over recent years.

In light of contract signing images circulating from former minister Saksayam Chidchob’s tenure, Phiphat advised against politicizing the current safety crises. He emphasized, "Let political matters stay within the realm of politics," dismissing any claims that might detract from the Ministry's operational focus.

During an interview with "Nation TV," Phiphat affirmed his readiness to accept personal responsibility, stating, “As the Minister of Transport, I cannot escape responsibility, and I am ready to be held accountable.” However, he insists that consequences will depend on where accountability for the incidents resides—whether within his ministry or externally with contractors and supervisors.

Looking forward, the Ministry’s immediate goals involve ensuring safety and accountability. The halted projects will remain on pause until comprehensive safety assurances are provided. Should investigations attribute fault to the contractors, legal actions will be pursued against those responsible, reported The Nation.

Key Takeaways

• 13 railway projects suspended due to crane accidents.

• Investigations will conclude within seven days to determine fault.

• Legal actions and blacklisting of the contractor are anticipated.

Related Stories

Investigation Intensifies: Building Collapse Unveils Forgery and Shady Contractors

Pattaya Contractors Finally Make Headway on Delayed Sukhumvit Road Projects

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2026-01-16

 

 

Here are the key details regarding the Thai Safety Department:

• Requirement & Establishment: Employers in specific industries (64 types of businesses) are required to appoint a Safety Department, often requiring at least one manager who has completed specialized training.

• Functions & Duties: The department is responsible for managing workplace safety, conducting risk assessments, implementing environmental health standards (e.g., light, sound, chemicals), and ensuring compliance with labor laws.

• Safety Committee (OSHE): For businesses with 50 or more employees, this department works alongside a mandatory Safety Committee, which consists of representatives from both the employer and employees.

• Legal Consequences: Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to imprisonment for up to one year and/or fines up to THB 400,000.

• Training & Certification: Organizations like "Thai Safety and Training Co., Ltd." provide training for these roles

What is the betting that this goverment dept did there risk assessments ????

Alas the consequences of full blown corruption leading to lives lost seems to be hitting home. My guess is and I reckon it's an accurate one none of those at the higher levels involved in corruption will face justice. Real justice I mean not the corrupt Thai justice.

In the first paragraph might be better to state "the contractor responsible" not "the responsible contractor"! A whole different meaning!

17 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

During an interview with "Nation TV," Phiphat affirmed his readiness to accept personal responsibility, stating, “As the Minister of Transport, I cannot escape responsibility, and I am ready to be held accountable.”

Yes. Go to jail. Do not pass "Go". You have already collected the $200 multiple times. You and your predecessors are accountable for these deaths.

If you think that anything will change, you are delusional !!!

On 1/16/2026 at 6:42 PM, snoop1130 said:

During an interview with "Nation TV," Phiphat affirmed his readiness to accept personal responsibility, stating, “As the Minister of Transport, I cannot escape responsibility, and I am ready to be held accountable.” However, he insists that consequences will depend on where accountability for the incidents resides—whether within his ministry or externally with contractors and supervisors.

Didn't he just state where the accountability resides?

What exactly are the consequences when one "...accept(s) personal responsibility"?

On 1/16/2026 at 6:42 PM, snoop1130 said:

“As the Minister of Transport, I cannot escape responsibility, and I am ready to be held accountable.”

Thanking his lucky amulets he's not a minister of railways in China!

18 minutes ago, Peabody said:

Didn't he just state where the accountability resides?

What exactly are the consequences when one "...accept(s) personal responsibility"?

That likely means adding a fruit basket to the 40,000 baht paid to the families of the dead.

11 minutes ago, NoDisplayName said:

That likely means adding a fruit basket to the 40,000 baht paid to the families of the dead.

I think they upped it today to 1.7 million each