The death toll from a devastating fire at a Bangkok bar has risen to 33, as Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul vowed a nationwide overhaul of entertainment venue regulations. The blaze tore through the popular Rong Beer Na Lad Phrao restaurant and bar on Sunday night, rapidly engulfing the venue. Authorities confirmed the updated toll yesterday, with around 70 injured, including more than a dozen in critical condition.
Investigators are focusing on why the fire proved so deadly. In a video released by the PM’s office, Anutin was told by an official that two exit doors existed, but one was labelled for staff only with no clear emergency signage. ‘So this means people weren’t aware that this was the emergency fire exit,’ Anutin said. A rescuer suggested the door might have been kept unmarked to prevent customers from escaping without paying.
The government has ordered an urgent inspection of all entertainment venues nationwide. Anutin also noted the bar was not licensed to offer live music, despite doing so regularly. ‘Businesses that do not comply with regulations are not sustainable, and the owner of this venue will face the utmost prosecution,’ he said. The owner was admitted to intensive care immediately after the fire.
Thailand has long faced concerns over health and safety in bars and nightclubs. In 2009, a fire at Bangkok’s Santika club killed 67 during New Year celebrations. A building safety expert told AFP that Rong Beer Na Lad Phrao lacked safety systems for the large crowds and live events it hosted.
The Erawan Emergency Medical Centre reported the updated toll, with 33 dead and approximately 70 injured. The incident has sparked public outrage and renewed scrutiny of safety standards in the entertainment industry.
Article and image source: thephuketnews.com
