Chaos on the Chao Phraya: Tugboat smashes into 6 tour boats
Tourists and locals were left stunned this morning when a heavily laden tugboat ploughed into six moored tour boats on Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River, sinking one and injuring a woman.
The dramatic accident unfolded just before 11am near Krung Thep Bridge in the Bang Kholaem district, as the tug struggled against a strong current while hauling barges filled with sand. Rama 199 radio centre reported that the tug captain appeared to lose control, sending the vessel hurtling off course and slamming into the stationary boats.
Rescue teams, including firefighters, raced to the scene. One of the tour boats, a 40-seater, sank beneath the river’s surface, while the remaining five suffered significant damage. A woman, injured in the incident, was rushed to hospital with a head injury. Reports noted she had a swollen forehead but was conscious.
An eyewitness described the chaos as the tug’s collision caused panic along the riverbank.
“It was like watching a slow-motion disaster.”
Officials quickly stepped in to assess the damage. The Marine Department and police launched an investigation into the accident, focusing on the captain’s actions and the river’s treacherous conditions. Strong currents are a known hazard on this bustling waterway, where cargo boats often navigate close to passenger vessels and moored craft, reported Bangkok Post.
The incident has raised questions about river safety, with locals calling for stricter navigation regulations to prevent similar accidents.
This is a developing story, and officials are expected to provide updates as the investigation continues.
In related news, the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) leapt into action after a fishing boat capsized in the treacherous Gulf of Thailand, leaving its five crew members stranded.
The alarm was raised by the Pattani Port Control Centre, alerting the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre Region 2 (MECC) to the disaster, which occurred roughly 128 kilometres east of the Songkhla Channel.
