Bangkok: The Ministry of Transport has released its comprehensive investigation findings into the Sikhiu train accident and the collapse on Rama 2 road, identifying systemic failures in both cases.

According to Thai News Agency, the investigation into the Sikhiu train accident revealed that the incident resulted from a failure of the safety system, rather than a machinery breakdown. This was attributed to personnel errors, inadequate supervision, and systemic shortcomings that allowed the train to operate without proper checks and balances.

The Ministry's investigation into the Rama 2 road accident found that the collapse of a giant crane and concrete beam was the result of an unstable support base exacerbated by a sloping surface and the improper stacking of heavy equipment. Mr. Jirapong Theppitak, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, along with other officials, detailed these findings, emphasizing the lack of a dedicated on-site supervisor as a critical factor in both incidents.

On January 15, 2026, the collapse occurred on Highway 82, resulting in two fatalities and two injuries. The committee, led by Mr. Jirapong, conducted a thorough investigation, which involved on-site inspections, document reviews, interviews, and technical analyses. The findings pointed to a series of accumulated installation defects, such as improper use of crane mounting systems and deviations from approved designs, as the primary causes of the collapse.

The contractor, Italian-Thai Development Public Company Limited, was found to have made unauthorized modifications to the crane, which had an expired safety certificate. Additionally, the Department of Highways was criticized for approving non-compliant installations and lacking specific standards for bridge construction with launching gantry cranes.

The committee has outlined a phased action plan to prevent future incidents, which includes immediate inspection of crane safety certificates, establishing specific construction standards, and implementing real-time warning systems. Compensation for the victims has been initiated, with Italian-Thai Development Public Company Limited providing initial assistance and planning further compensation.

The findings of the Sikhiu train accident investigation have been submitted to the Minister of Transport, highlighting the need for improved safety systems and supervision to prevent similar occurrences in the future.