Chachoengsao: An ambulance transporting an injured person to Sanam Chai Khet Hospital collided with a wild elephant in the Pa Ha Roi Rai forest, Chachoengsao Province. The incident occurred at approximately 11:30 PM in the Tha Takieb Elephant Barrier area, a 500-rai forest along Ban Na Road, Sanam Chai Khet District.
According to Thai News Agency, the ambulance, belonging to the Phanom Rescue Unit at Thung Phraya, was carrying three victims of a previous van accident. As it navigated a curve in the dark forest, a large male wild elephant, around 5 years old, was crossing the road. Despite the driver’s attempt to brake, a collision was unavoidable. The ambulance sustained damage, and a rescue worker inside suffered minor injuries, although the patient being transported was unharmed.
The elephant lay on the road momentarily, showing signs of injury before retreating into the forest. Officials arranged for another rescue vehicle to transport the accident victim to Sanam Chai Hospital and moved the damaged ambulance with a slide truck.
The mayor of Tha Kradan Subdistrict Administrative Organization coordinated with the Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary to assess the elephant’s condition. A mobile elephant repellent team was dispatched to monitor the situation and develop safety measures, as wild elephants frequently cross the road at night. Motorists are advised to remain vigilant to prevent further accidents.