Investigation into Bangkok Bar Fire Raises Questions of Negligence
Authorities in Bangkok are delving into potential negligence as a cause for the devastating fire that erupted at a local bar, resulting in the deaths of at least 30 individuals. Survivors have reported that exits were locked and emergency signage was inadequate, complicating escape efforts during the blaze late on Sunday.
Investigators have noted that flammable materials used in the bar's decor may have accelerated the spread of the fire, which began near the stage area. Police General Kittiratt Phanphet highlighted the apparent lack of safety precautions, stating it demonstrated a disregard for patron safety.
The Human Toll of the Fire
The blaze has left over 70 people injured, with 24 in critical condition. As of Tuesday morning, identification had been completed for 27 of the deceased. Many victims were found in the bar's restrooms, suggesting they attempted to flee but were unable to find a way out.
Preliminary findings indicate the fire may have been sparked by an electrical short circuit in an air conditioning unit, which led to a power outage throughout the venue. Patrons previously described the bar as poorly lit, even before the fire broke out.
Challenges in Escape and Safety Shortcomings
Phatsara Khamloet, a visitor to the bar in May, described navigating a complex route to the restrooms and noted the absence of clearly marked exits. Busakorn Saensuk, a fire safety expert from the Engineering Institute of Thailand, confirmed that a door near the restrooms was locked and that furniture obstructed the main entrance doors.
"People would naturally run towards the back, where the restrooms were, but they couldn't escape," Busakorn explained. She further noted that illuminated emergency signs might have helped patrons realize the door was locked, potentially allowing them to unlock it.
Flammable Decor and Toxic Smoke
The stage's flammable decorations, such as plastic flowers and foam ceiling tiles, contributed to the rapid spread of flames. Witnesses reported that the stage was engulfed in fire within seconds. Tragically, the Thai indie band Thotsakan, performing at the time, lost two members in the incident.
Structural engineering professor Worsak Kanok Nukulchai suggested that many victims might have succumbed to toxic smoke inhalation, produced by the burning materials. This smoke likely contained carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide, known as the "toxic twins" of fire smoke.
Regulatory Gaps and Past Incidents
Bangkok authorities confirmed the bar was registered as a "restaurant with live music," not an "entertainment venue," exempting it from requirements to use fire-retardant materials. The city's Metropolitan Administration is now reviewing regulations concerning construction and decoration materials for both restaurants and entertainment venues.
Previous reports indicate that the owner of Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao had another pub in Yasothon province destroyed by fire in 2019, though no casualties occurred as the incident took place during the day.
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