A devastating fire at a Bangkok pub has resulted in the deaths of 30 individuals, marking the city’s deadliest blaze in nearly two decades. The fire, which broke out early Monday morning, has prompted an investigation into potential negligence, with authorities examining the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Investigation Details
The fire at the Rong Beer Na Ladprao pub was reportedly caused by an electrical short circuit in an air conditioner located in the ceiling. National police chief Kittiratt Phanphet stated that negligence is currently the primary theory guiding the investigation. The pub's management has expressed its intention to cooperate fully with the inquiry and has issued apologies to the victims' families.

Victims and Injuries
As of Tuesday, authorities have confirmed the identities of 27 victims, with three individuals still unaccounted for. Among the injured, 24 are in critical condition, while 15 have sustained moderate injuries, and 36 others have minor injuries and have since returned home. Most of the deceased are believed to be Thai nationals.

Access Issues During the Fire
Initial reports suggest that many victims were trapped in windowless bathrooms near a rear exit that was not utilized during the emergency. Kittiratt noted that access to this exit may have been obstructed by furniture, while another exit near the kitchen was potentially narrowed by shelving units. Investigators are also looking into whether exit doors were locked during the incident, which could have prevented a timely escape.

Safety Violations and Concerns
During a visit to the scene, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul was informed that a door, previously used as an exit, had been bolted shut due to concerns that patrons might leave without paying. This door was marked “staff only” and could have provided an escape route for those trapped inside. Anutin remarked that had the patrons been aware of this exit, it could have changed the outcome of the tragedy.

Future Actions and Accountability
Authorities are assessing the safety measures in place at the pub, including the use of flammable materials in décor and the installation of electrical wiring. The investigation aims to determine accountability for the fire and ensure that such a tragedy does not occur again in the future.

Wrap-up
The Bangkok pub fire has not only led to significant loss of life but has also raised serious questions about safety regulations and emergency preparedness in entertainment venues. As investigations continue, the focus remains on uncovering the factors that contributed to this catastrophic event.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team