Bangkok Pub Fire Death Toll Rises to 32; Investigation Underway

Bangkok: The death toll in the massive fire at a live music pub in Thailand's capital, Bangkok, has risen to 32 after two more critically injured victims succumbed to their injuries on Wednesday, authorities said.

Thirty people remain hospitalized across various hospitals in the city, with 15 of them in critical condition. Meanwhile, 44 injured victims have been discharged after receiving treatment. The blaze is being described as one of Thailand's worst disasters in recent years.

The fire broke out shortly after midnight on Sunday at the Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao pub in Bangkok's northern Chatuchak district. Eyewitnesses said a loud explosion was followed by flames and thick smoke rapidly engulfing the building.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire may have been triggered by a short circuit in a ceiling-mounted air conditioner. Experts believe that highly flammable soundproofing materials installed around the stage intensified the blaze and led to the rapid spread of toxic smoke throughout the venue.

Police have launched a detailed investigation to determine whether serious safety violations or negligence contributed to the tragedy. Authorities are also examining whether emergency exit doors were blocked during the incident.

In the wake of the disaster, the Thai government announced that safety regulations for entertainment venues would be tightened. Nationwide surprise inspections have also been ordered to ensure compliance with fire safety standards.

Thailand witnessed a similar tragedy in 2009, when a fire at a Bangkok nightclub claimed the lives of 65 people.