A double-decked passenger coach slammed into the rear of a ten-wheel truck, parked on the roadside after colliding with another truck, sparking a fire that killed at least seven people and injured many others early this morning in Prachin Buri province.

The coach, operated by the 407 Pattana Co, Ltd, from Nong Khai province, was heading to Rayong province on Highway 304 and, according to a witness, it was moving at the high speed when the accident occurred at 2.19am.

Rescue workers from the Sawang Bamphen Dhammasathan Foundation rushed to the scene, to extinguish the fire and assist passengers. More than 40 people sustained injuries, including severe burns and blunt force trauma from the impact. They were taken to Na Di Hospital.

Seven deaths including, the coach driver, have been confirmed so far.

Highway police have collected evidence and efforts are currently underway to identify all the deceased.

Highway 304 is a major road connecting the north-eastern and eastern regions of Thailand. The highway is often congested, especially during holidays and weekends.

In February, another major incident, involving a double-decked coach, occurred in Prachin Buri. The vehicle was carrying a delegation from Bueng Kan province and the accident resulted in 20 deaths and numerous injuries.

There was also a tragic incident in October last year in Bangkok, when a double-decked coach, carrying primary and middle school students, caught fire. 20 students and three teachers died.

Many have called for stronger safety measures, regulations and law enforcement, to prevent further tragedies.