Tugboat Successfully Recovered After Sinking in Pa Sak River
Authorities have successfully raised a tugboat that capsized near Wat Phanan Choeng in Ayutthaya following an engine failure.
On October 19, 2026, rescue teams successfully recovered a tugboat that had sunk in the Pa Sak River near Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan in Ayutthaya province. The vessel, identified as the 'Ch. Ratchanee Rungruang,' capsized after experiencing engine failure while towing a cargo barge. The 62-year-old captain, Anukul Phromwiphawadee, managed to escape the sinking vessel but sustained a broken right arm during the incident.
Following the accident, divers located the boat at a depth of approximately 18 meters. The recovery operation, which commenced at 2:30 PM, involved using a crane to lift the vessel and stabilize it before towing it to the riverbank opposite the temple. Despite heavy rainfall during the final stages of the operation, the boat was successfully moved to a shallower area with a depth of about 3 meters.
For residents and travelers in the area, this incident highlights the ongoing maritime activity on the Pa Sak River. While the immediate obstruction has been cleared, the vessel is slated for transport to a shipyard for repairs. Authorities, including Ayutthaya Governor Chawanin Wongsathitjirakan, have been overseeing the situation. It remains to be confirmed what specific mechanical issues led to the engine failure and whether any further environmental assessments regarding the riverbed or potential fuel leakage are required.
