Sriracha Municipality has purchased a new fire rescue truck equipped with a ladder capable of operating at heights of at least 60 metres, significantly boosting its ability to respond to high-rise emergencies in the municipal area and nearby locations. The move is aimed at improving firefighting efficiency and rescue operations in densely built urban zones, particularly where conventional fire engines cannot access upper levels.

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The decision follows a major high-rise fire in mid-2023 within the municipality’s jurisdiction, where emergency crews faced limitations due to insufficient ladder height on existing vehicles. Most fire engines in Thailand are fitted with hydraulic ladders that can reach only up to around 23 metres, equivalent to approximately eight storeys, leaving taller buildings difficult to access during emergencies.

Recognising these constraints, the municipality prioritised upgrading its rescue equipment to better reflect real-world risks in a rapidly developing urban environment. The newly acquired vehicle is a 10-wheel truck fitted with a rotating boom capable of 360-degree movement, along with a high-pressure water system and foam nozzles designed for effective firefighting at height.

The truck also includes rescue equipment such as stretchers, dual control systems operated from both ground level and the rescue basket, evacuation lift for victims and full personal protective gear for responders. It is designed to assist evacuations from high-rise buildings, hotels and narrow-access areas where ground-level firefighting is not feasible, requiring elevated response strategies.

Chon Buri province, particularly areas such as Pattaya, Sriracha and Bang Saen, has seen significant growth in high-rise developments, with multiple buildings exceeding eight storeys or 23 metres in height. These are concentrated in tourism hubs and economic zones, where condominiums, hotels and office buildings are expanding rapidly.

Pictures courtesy of ChonburiNews

Officials say the investment enhances public safety and reflects the municipality’s preparedness for future urban growth. By strengthening emergency response capabilities, the initiative aims to build confidence among residents and visitors while supporting sustainable city development with safety as a central priority.

ChonburiNews reported that the municipality is expected to integrate the new vehicle into its emergency response system and deploy it for both local incidents and regional support when required. The procurement forms part of broader efforts to ensure infrastructure and safety measures keep pace with continued urban expansion.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now ChonburiNews 12 Apr 2026

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I hope they do better with it than they do with cranes in this country!

Money well spent. A lot more useful than frigates and submarines.