Nonthaburi: A tugboat collided with a power pole along the Chao Phraya River, damaging a villager's house and causing a widespread power outage.

According to Thai News Agency, the dramatic incident occurred when the tugboat collided with power poles along the river, causing six poles to lean and damage houses. The power outage affected almost the entire community. A video captured the moment an unidentified tugboat, carrying cargo, crashed into a concrete power pole in front of the Mee Rak restaurant in Moo 1, Koh Kret Subdistrict, Pak Kret District, Nonthaburi Province. Residents recorded significant damage to the walkway and restaurant structure. The precariously tilted power pole remains a concern for locals fearing further collapse. The boat driver stayed on scene awaiting authorities.

Mr. Apirat Phintokaew, owner of Namwan Cafe, described hearing the tugboat's engine rev loudly near his shop. Investigating, he found that the walkway in front of his house had been damaged and collapsed. Villagers noted that six electricity poles were missing. His girlfriend filmed the tugboat scraping the eaves of his shop but fortunately did not hit it directly, which could have caused extensive damage.

Ms. Pensri, 70, recounted that the incident cracked her roof and collapsed the ceiling, leading to an immediate power outage. She expressed relief that the large transformer near her house did not explode, which would have caused more severe damage. Pensri hopes that any necessary repairs will not involve reinstalling the transformer in front of her house. She is currently avoiding her home, waiting for technicians to inspect the fallen roof tiles and potential structural cracks.

Mrs. Thuan, or Grandma Pom, 88, recounted her near-death experience, describing how she was startled by loud banging sounds around 5:30 AM. She quickly evacuated as she saw a house pillar leaning over, terrified by the sight.

Mr. Thongchai Praditsilp, the boat driver, explained that he and his assistant were transporting approximately 7,000 tons of beans across three towed boats. As they reached Koh Kret, an engine gasket rupture caused an explosion and fire in the engine area, leading to sparks and loss of power. The boat then inadvertently dragged a line of power poles, causing them to fall.

The Marine Department has taken the vessel out of service and announced traffic controls to prevent further accidents. If investigations confirm negligence, the boat driver's license may be revoked. Preliminary assessments suggest an engine malfunction and broken gasket, but further investigation is required.