2-7-2024 (BANGKOK) A devastating fire broke out at a renowned vehicle yard in Khon Kaen, Thailand, leaving a prototype light rail tram in ruins. The incident, which occurred around midnight on July 1, saw two carriages of the innovative tram succumb to the relentless blaze, despite the valiant efforts of firefighters.
Responding to the emergency call, teams from the Mueang Khon Kaen Municipality, along with volunteers from the Sawang Khon Kaen Samakkhi Foundation and Highway Rescue Khon Kaen, rushed to the scene at approximately 12:10 am. The fire had already taken hold of the Tram Noi, a light rail tram developed by professors at the Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Khon Kaen Campus.
The firefighters faced a formidable challenge as the fire was fueled by the installed batteries, making it nearly impossible to extinguish. Despite their relentless efforts, the blaze continued to rage until around 1:45 am, by which time the entire tram had sustained significant damage.
Initial investigations revealed that two carriages of the Tram Noi were severely damaged in the incident. The light rail tram was developed as part of a study on the Tram 907, received from Japan, and the university had been allocated funds to develop this prototype with the intention of presenting its findings to the Prime Minister during his visit to Nakhon Ratchasima for a mobile Cabinet meeting, as reported by KhaoSod.
The incident has dealt a substantial blow to the university and the Smart City project, which aimed to improve public transport and urban living in Khon Kaen through the integration of modern technology and innovation. The prototype tram was a significant investment in the city’s vision to become a Smart City, leveraging cutting-edge solutions to enhance service efficiency and city management.
