KHON KAEN — Thailand's third train collision in the past 48 hours occurred in the northeast this morning, as a truck crashed into a train and killed at least four people.
The train was on its way from Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai province. The deceased include the train's driver, Wichai Thongdee, a train mechanic, Dumri Phosavart, and two passengers.
There were no lights or barriers at the crossing where the collision occured in Khon Kaen province, as it was one of hundreds of unofficial railway-road intersections in Thailand.
Transportation officials say there are at least 500 illegal train crossings in the country, which increase the chance of accidents as the intersections are not properly marked.
Just yesterday, a car collided into a moving train in Phetchaburi province in southern Thailand and caused a small explosion that killed the driver and his wife.
The couple, Vittaya and Rojanawan Ratanam, were reportedly looking at a GPS their mobile phone and did not realize the train was coming.
Another train accident occurred late Tuesday night when the engine of 35-year-old Pakrassami Makradee’s car gave out while she was driving through a railway crossing in Phitsanulok province. The train slammed into her car and dragged it for 100 metres. Luckily, Pakrassami only suffered minor injuries.
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