Fire damages prototype tram in Khon Kaen vehicle yard

A fire engulfed a prototype light rail tram at a well-known vehicle yard in Khon Kaen, Thailand, causing extensive damage to two carriages. The incident occurred around midnight today, July 1, and despite relentless efforts by firefighters, the blaze could not be extinguished due to the installed batteries feeding the flames.

Firefighters from the Mueang Khon Kaen Municipality, along with volunteers from the Sawang Khon Kaen Samakkhi Foundation and Highway Rescue Khon Kaen, responded to the fire at approximately 12.10am. The fire was burning the Tram Noi, a light rail tram developed by professors at Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Khon Kaen Campus.

Due to the nature of battery fires, putting out the flames proved to be a strenuous task. The fire was eventually brought under control and extinguished around 1.45am, but not before the entire tram was significantly damaged.

Initial investigations revealed that the Tram Noi sustained damage to two carriages. This light rail tram was developed as part of a study on the Tram 907, received from Japan. The university had been allocated funds to develop this prototype and intended to present its findings to the Prime Minister during his visit to Nakhon Ratchasima for a mobile Cabinet meeting, reported KhaoSod.

The incident is a setback for the university and the Smart City project. The prototype tram, part of a broader effort to improve public transport and urban living in Khon Kaen, was a significant investment in the city’s future. Khon Kaen’s vision as a Smart City involves leveraging modern technology and innovation to enhance service efficiency and city management.

In separate news, Ramkhamhaeng Station on the Airport Rail Link has reopened for passengers after a brief closure due to a fire in a nearby shop early yesterday. The airport train operator confirmed the resumption of normal services at the station.