Bang Lamung, Thailand – A massive explosion at an ice factory in Bang Lamung, Thailand, resulted in 128 individuals being injured, with some experiencing eye and nose irritation and even loss of consciousness due to ammonia inhalation. The blast, which occurred in the middle of the night, sent a cloud of ammonia gas spreading over a distance of more than a kilometre, prompting swift response from disaster prevention officials.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing a deafening explosion followed by thick smoke billowing from the factory, indicating a significant incident that required immediate attention. District chief Weekit Manarojkit mobilized disaster prevention teams to evacuate both employees and residents in the vicinity to ensure their safety.
As a precautionary measure, a 2 km perimeter was established around the factory to restrict access to unauthorized personnel and to facilitate the treatment and transportation of those injured in the explosion. The injured were promptly taken to nearby hospitals for medical care, with emergency responders working diligently to control the situation as quickly as possible.
Weekit underscored the importance of ongoing support for affected communities, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and assistance in the aftermath of the explosion. District administration staff were scheduled to conduct patrols in the surrounding areas to provide aid and support to residents who may have been impacted by the incident, demonstrating a commitment to the well-being of the community.
The incident serves as a reminder of the potential hazards associated with industrial accidents and highlights the importance of preparedness and rapid response in mitigating the impacts of such events. Authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the explosion and to implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future, ensuring the safety and security of both workers and residents in the area.