A ‘VIP’ double-decker bus carrying a group of worshippers crashed into a roadside electricity pole in Cha-am, Phetchaburi, on the morning of 17 March 2026, leaving dozens injured. The impact snapped the high-voltage pole, which fell onto the vehicle, causing significant front-end damage and forcing the bus into a roadside ditch. At least one passenger sustained serious injuries, while many others suffered minor wounds. Get today's headlines by email Police at Cha-am station were alerted to the incident at around 07:00, with emergency services, including Cha-am Hospital and Sawang Sanphet rescue teams, dispatched to the scene on Phetkasem Road, southbound, in the Huai Sai Tai community. The bus, operated by Wakin Travel, had been carrying approximately 50 passengers. Rescue workers provided first aid before transporting the injured to Cha-am Hospital. The driver, Mr Anuchit Thongnok, 41, from Buriram, sustained minor injuries and was taken in for questioning. According to his statement, the group had departed Bangkok at 22:00 on 16 March for a trip to nine temples, with their final destination at Wat Khao Tao in Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan. Prior to the crash, the bus had stopped at a petrol station in Cha-am. Mr Anuchit told police he was travelling in the right lane at around 70 km/h when another vehicle suddenly cut across from the left lane at close range. He said he swerved to avoid a collision, causing him to lose control of the bus and strike the electricity pole. Authorities are continuing their investigation to verify the circumstances of the incident. Pictures courtesy of Daily News Daily News reported that police coordinated transport for uninjured passengers, arranging for them to be taken to Cha-am Police Station before organising replacement vehicles from the bus company to continue their journey. The crash caused disruption along the route, while officials worked to clear the damaged pole and vehicle from the scene. Related stories Migrant-workers-injured-in-Chonburi-crash Five-dead-six-injured-in-Chainat-pickup-crash Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 18 Mar 2026
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