Economy
Major Fire Strikes Khlong Thom Center in Bangkok
A severe fire at the Khlong Thom Center in Bangkok has caused significant property damage, with local business owners reporting it as the worst incident in three decades.
On the night of August 28, 2026, a major fire broke out at the Khlong Thom Center, located on Worachak Road in the Pom Prap Sattru Phai district of Bangkok. According to reports from Khaosod Online, the fire was brought under control by authorities, and there have been no reports of casualties or individuals trapped within the facility.
Local business owners, such as a long-time merchant known as "Hia Yong," described the event as the most destructive fire in the area in over 30 years. Despite shop owners cutting off electricity at 8:00 PM, the fire reportedly spread through electrical wiring, causing extensive damage to inventory. Hia Yong estimated his personal losses from destroyed stock to be over 1 million baht.
For residents and travelers, this incident highlights the vulnerability of older commercial districts to fire hazards. While the area is currently secured, the structural integrity of parts of the building remains a concern, and access to the site is restricted. The exact cause of the fire, particularly how it spread despite power being disconnected, remains under investigation. Authorities are expected to provide further clarity as the assessment of the damage continues.