The split-second collapse of a crane on Rama 2 Road uncovers weaknesses linked to old equipment and lack of maintenance, resulting in two tragic deaths. Experts point to flaws in crane maintenance that had emerged as early as 2024 and suggest setting penalties for construction companies involved.
On the morning of 15 Jan 2026, a construction crane on the Rama 2 elevated road collapsed onto the median strip on the outbound side heading away from Bangkok, just before the Tha Chin bridge in Samut Sakhon province. The falling crane crushed two cars, causing two fatalities and five injuries. Authorities have cordoned off the area and advised drivers to avoid the route due to heavy traffic congestion.
Rama 2 Road is a major route with several ongoing large-scale construction projects, which have led to multiple accidents at construction sites, causing widespread concern among residents and motorists. The collapse involved concrete beam segments and a launching gantry crane—key components used to build the elevated road for the Highway 82 project, Bang Khun Thian to Ban Phaeo section, specifically between Ekachai and Ban Phaeo, at kilometer 30+300.
The Thairath Online special team interviewed an eyewitness who posted on Facebook under the name Real Champ (Zerovasab) describing the moment of the crane collapse. He said he was driving normally when at about 09:10 the crane suddenly fell on both sides of the road. The inbound side to Bangkok was less affected than the outbound side heading south, where two cars were crushed. The collapse occurred without any prior warning in the area under construction for a connecting bridge.
The witness admitted he was still shocked by the incident and considered himself lucky to have escaped harm, especially since traffic volume had eased at the time, despite normally using this road regularly. He plans to avoid this route in the future and avoid driving in the right lane due to safety concerns. He also urged all road users to exercise greater caution while driving.
This crane collapse highlights ongoing safety issues at large construction sites, particularly regarding the use of heavy equipment near public roads. Similar incidents have occurred multiple times previously, raising questions about strict enforcement of engineering standards, oversight, and accountability of those responsible. Such measures are essential to prevent recurrence and minimize risks to public life and property.
Associate Professor Anek Siripanichakorn, President of the Engineering Institute of Thailand under Royal Patronage, told Thairath Online that this incident resembles a crane collapse on Rama 2 Road in 2024, as it involved the same model of launching gantry crane. He suspects the crane lost stability due to prolonged repeated use over time.
Normally, launching gantry cranes can be reused but require regular maintenance and readiness testing before each use. In this case, about 13 concrete beam segments were being transported, which is close to the crane’s maximum load capacity.
He suggested enacting laws to clearly register launching gantry cranes. Although Thailand already has equipment selection standards, stricter enforcement is necessary. Penalties should be imposed on contractors, as similar incidents continue to recur. He also advised motorists to avoid areas near construction sites or where launching gantry cranes are in operation to reduce risk of harm.
The crane collapse incident remains under detailed investigation by relevant authorities to determine the exact cause and establish preventive measures. This is critical to restore public confidence and reduce long-term risks to the lives and property of road users.