Bangkok Transit Chief Inspects BTS Fire, Eyes Morning Restart
A fire at Bangkok's Tao Poon BTS station on September 20 caused a power outage, with officials investigating electrical sparks as the likely cause and targeting a morning service restart.
At 3:50 p.m. on September 20, 2026, a fire broke out on the BTS tracks at Tao Poon station in Bangkok's Bang Sue district. After officials contained the blaze, Bangkok Governor Chatchat Sittiphan, Bang Sue District Director Thawatchai Chanthaset, and BTS Deputy Operating Director Withaya Panmongkhol inspected the site.
Withaya disclosed that the fire was caused by electrical sparks resulting in a power outage, with deeper investigation ongoing. The system normally receives regular maintenance, but officials must determine how the incident occurred and inspect for other potential risk points to prevent recurrence. He suggested that moisture from the rainy season could have contributed, though the true cause remains under investigation.
When asked about passenger safety risks during the blackout, Withaya assured that the system has safety protocols in place. Power is cut in stages; sparks may occur initially while power remains on, but they fade once the system is shut down. Staff are trained in evacuation procedures and passenger care.
Repair efforts are progressing urgently, with a goal to resume service connecting the Purple and Blue lines by tomorrow morning. Preliminary findings show damage to the power cable supplying electricity to the trains. Officials plan to deploy shuttle buses to minimize disruption to commuters while repairs proceed.
