Several Fresh Blaze And Explosions Reported At Thai Factory

By Linda Khoo Hui Li BANGKOK, July 7 (Bernama) -- Several fresh explosions and blaze were reported on Tuesday at the expandable polystyrene foam factory at the outskirts of Bangkok despite the fire being extinguished early Tuesday. On Tuesday, the firefighters said the fire was under control at 5 am (local time) today, more than 24 hours after an explosion at 3 am on Monday. Local media reported that the chemicals at the factory burst into flames on Tuesday afternoon. Black smoke from the blaze continue to pose another health risk. The blaze on Monday killed one volunteer firefighter, injured dozens and damaged nearby homes. Meanwhile, local disaster authorities said initial investigation found 100 houses and 15 cars were damaged in the incidents. Thick black poisonous smoke from the burning chemicals prompted the authorities evacuate residents residing within 5-kilometer radius. Meanwhile, Assoc. Prof. Weerachai Phutdhawong of Kasetsart University said the chemicals found in the black smoke, which spread over several areas, were hazardous and could cause cancer, reported Thai PBS. He urged the use of N95 masks that can filter PM2.5 and the avoidance of areas where chemical odours were distinct. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan o-cha said he had ordered authorities to conduct survey on possible contamination to soil, ground water as well as the drinking water and air to mitigate health impact. Meanwhile, Director-general of Pollution Control Department Atthapol Charoenchansa said the department will closely monitor the air quality and water in the area of the factory for three days. He added that the situation could be difficult to control if the area started to rain as the chemical could washed away into water sources. In a statement, Ming Dih Chemical Co Ltd apologised over the incident and offered to provide compensation for those affected by the incident after investigation. Investigation into the cause of the accident was underway. -- BERNAMA