PUBLISHED: 6 Oct 2024 at 07:11
In a disturbing development following the bus fire tragedy that claimed the lives of 20 students and three teachers in Pathum Thani, the Office of Attorney-General has reported that some parents attempting to claim compensation of 1.21 million baht each had little involvement in raising the children. The tragic incident occurred during a school excursion last Tuesday.
The provincial prosecution office in Uthai Thani is actively engaging with victims’ families, uncovering discrepancies in claims. Kosolwat Inthuchanyong, head of the rights protection and legal assistance office, emphasized that necessary remedial measures are being established to support the bereaved families and those impacted by the devastating fire.
Compensation for the affected families is being facilitated under a government-approved scheme, with prosecutors assisting in the completion of required documentation. The office is committed to ensuring that families of the deceased and injured receive the compensation they are legally entitled to.
However, complications have arisen as some parents, who entrusted their children to the care of relatives at a young age, are now contesting their eligibility for compensation. Some students were raised solely by one parent, leading to disputes over the distribution of funds.
Furthermore, investigations are underway by the National Anti-Corruption Commission into the possible collusion of state officials in the alleged illegal installation of gas tanks on the buses operated by the contracted transportation company.
In response to this tragedy, the Thailand Consumer Council has proposed increased standards for school excursions and public transport. Kongsak Chuenkrailas of the council highlighted the need for age-appropriate arrangements for school trips, noting that both kindergarteners and older students were on the same excursion.
The proposal includes that buses with a capacity of 40 passengers or more must have insurance coverage providing at least 30 million baht in compensation for accidents, a significant increase from the current minimum requirement of 10 million baht. Additionally, the council recommends the incorporation of emergency drills into school curriculums as part of scout training.
Deputy Education Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul announced that the ministry will oversee all fundraising efforts for the victims and their families to prevent scams and confusion. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin confirmed that a young student continues to receive treatment for severe burns at the Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health.
