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Published on February 16, 2008

The fire broke out at the Rong Moo community opposite Klong Toei District Office at about 2.30am and flames quickly swept through the crowded shacks, with explosions of cooking gas.

Residents hurriedly evacuated their families and saved what belongings they could.

An initial inspection found that 50 homes had been burned down, leaving hundreds of people homeless.

Officials investigating the fire believe it started in a house belonging to Chaowalit Eum-aroon. Tents were set up to provide temporary shelter for those affected while relief agencies were contacted to provide assistance.

Bangkok Governor Apirak Kosayodhin made a mid-morning visit to the community and instructed district officials to help victims. He said the fire was suspected to have begun at a house where the owner had left burning candles unattended.

Chaowalit said he was not at home when the blaze broke out as he was delivering pigs. The only people there were his two nephews aged seven months and one year. Fortunately, neighbours saved the two.

The Nation