On June 16, 2024, tragedy struck the annual Rocket Festival at Ban Sang Bu Temple in Roi Et Province, Thailand, turning a festive occasion into a scene of distress. The event, renowned for its cultural significance and festive spirit, drew a large crowd to Phon Sai Sawang Subdistrict, Phon Thong District. However, the day took a devastating turn at 5:00 p.m. when a rocket explosion caused multiple injuries among attendees.
The festival, a beloved tradition aiming to bring luck and joy to the community, was marred by an unexpected mishap. As participants eagerly awaited the launch of 370,000 rockets, intended to fill the sky in a spectacular display, disaster struck. A malfunction during the launch led to a powerful explosion at the rocket launcher base. The sudden blast caused injuries to approximately 30 individuals who had gathered to witness the festivities, prompting scenes of panic and chaos.
The injured suffered a range of wounds from facial lacerations to serious head and limb injuries. Emergency response teams acted swiftly, providing immediate assistance and transporting the wounded to Phon Thong District Hospital. At the hospital, medical staff worked diligently to assess and treat the injured, managing a challenging situation exacerbated by the festival’s large turnout.
Traditionally a vibrant celebration, the Rocket Festival serves as a cultural highlight in Roi Et Province. Yet, this year’s incident underscored the risks inherent in large-scale public gatherings involving fireworks and rockets. Authorities swiftly initiated an investigation into the cause of the malfunction, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures to prevent future accidents. Local officials, alongside festival organizers, expressed heartfelt condolences to those affected, pledging comprehensive measures to safeguard participants in upcoming events.
In the aftermath of the tragic explosion, the community of Phon Sai Sawang Subdistrict rallied together, offering support and solidarity to the injured and their families. This unfortunate event serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of safety protocols in public festivities, ensuring that cultural celebrations can be enjoyed without risk to participants’ well-being.
