On 28 January 2025, a frightening incident unfolded on Phra Ram 2 Road in Samut Sakhon when smoke began billowing from a passenger bus traveling from Bangkok to Ranong. The bus, registered as 15-4184 Bangkok-Hanakorn, was heading south when passengers, numbering 39 in total, were forced to evacuate in a state of panic.
According to reports, the bus was parked in the express lane near Mueang District when the alarm was raised. Passengers began shouting “Fire! Fire! Fire!” after noticing thick smoke emerging from the air vents. Chaos quickly ensued, and the panicked crowd rushed to the exits. Fortunately, the driver, 37-year-old Mr. Natthaphong Phuengphinij, remained calm during the emergency. Realizing the potential danger, he swiftly cut off the bus’s power supply before stopping the vehicle, enabling him to safely open the doors and evacuate all passengers.
Local authorities, including officers from Samut Sakhon City Police Station and emergency responders from multiple hospitals, including Mahachai, Chetthachai, Vichaiyut, and Vibharam, arrived quickly at the scene. They coordinated efforts to provide assistance and ensure the safety of the passengers. Despite the dramatic situation, no injuries were reported, and the passengers were unharmed.
An initial investigation revealed that the smoke was caused by an electrical short circuit in the bus’s lighting system. The timely intervention by the driver prevented what could have been a far more dangerous situation. Following the evacuation, authorities worked to alleviate the passengers’ distress, offering food, water, and coffee while a replacement bus was arranged to continue the journey.
This incident highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and swift action in preventing major accidents. The situation was resolved without fatalities or injuries, and passengers were safely transferred to their destination later that evening.
