Thai King to cover medical costs for victims of Phichit school roof collapse
His Majesty the King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua has pledged to cover the medical expenses of those injured in a tragic roof collapse at a school in Phichit during a storm on Monday evening. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha announced this decision during a visit to the affected Ban Noen Po School and the local community in Sam Ngam district, following the incident which claimed seven lives and left 18 people injured.
PM Prayut said…
“His Majesty the King has accepted all injured people under royal patronage. This is the grace of the royal institution extended to all people. We cherish the kindness of His Majesty the King in our hearts.”
The roof of the sports arena collapsed when a powerful gust of wind hit the structure as students were playing football underneath. Four students and three adults lost their lives, while 18 others were injured. Twelve of the injured have since been discharged from the hospital, reported Bangkok Post.
The storm also affected 16 villages across three sub-districts, causing significant damage to 408 houses, two schools, and a temple.
Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri stated that state agencies have been instructed to assess the structural integrity of public buildings to ensure they can withstand severe weather conditions, as warned by the Thai Meteorological Department.
He also emphasised the importance of disaster prevention centres having proper procedures in place and maintaining readiness to respond to potential disasters, in collaboration with other agencies, including the military and police.
