Tyre recycling factory fire in Samut Sakhon contained after hours-long battle

2026-02-27 - 02:43

SAMUT SAKHON — 27 February 2026, More than 20 fire engines battled a pre-dawn blaze at a tyre recycling factory in Krathum Baen district after flames engulfed large piles of used tyres, with officials expecting operations to last all day. Flames tore through the roughly two-rai compound, where large piles of car and motorcycle tyres were stored. More than 20 fire engines were deployed, but narrow, single-access roads hampered efforts. Firefighters pumped water from the front and side of the factory to contain the blaze. Krathum Baen district chief Pirunroj Nakdontri and Pol. Col. Phasapong Monta, superintendent of Krathum Baen Police Station, led the response. Authorities said the volume of tyres made the fire difficult to extinguish. Three backhoes were brought in to break apart the piles so water could reach the base of the flames. Officials expect operations to last all day. Nearby factories were not affected, and farmland behind the site helped prevent the fire from spreading. v Jantapen Pancharoentakul, 46, the owner, said she and her husband, a Chinese national, have operated the factory for more than 20 years. About 20 workers — mostly ethnic Shan from Myanmar — and their families were asleep in on-site accommodation when the blaze began. Her niece noticed the air conditioner had stopped working and discovered flames near an electrical cabinet. All occupants evacuated safely. The cause is believed to be an electrical short circuit. Damage is estimated at 30 million to 40 million baht. Pol. Lt. Tivattapon Thawisangsaksit, deputy investigation inspector at Krathum Baen Police Station, is collecting evidence and will question the owner and witnesses. Provincial forensic officers will conduct a further examination. Authorities will also inspect the factory’s permits and operating licences.