Pattaya's Four regions Floating market in ruins, 50 Million Baht estimated damages from fire.
A devastating blaze has wreaked havoc upon the floating Market in Pattaya, causing preliminary damage estimates to soar to a staggering 50 million baht. The inferno is believed to have ignited within a wooden restroom facility, with no reports of significant injuries or fatalities at the time of this report.
The emergency services received notification of the fire at approximately 8:30 P.M. on Thursday, September 7th, at the market, situated along Sukhumvit Road. Responding swiftly, police and a contingent of approximately 20 fire engines, arrived at the scene to confront the fierce flames. As of the latest update, the fire has been brought largely under control, although isolated pockets of flames and smoldering embers remain.
Employees recounted that, at 7:00 P.M., they were concluding their workday and preparing to return home when sparks erupted, sparking the conflagration within the heart of the market near the wooden restrooms. The financial toll of the destruction is currently estimated to exceed 50 million baht. Reporters witnessed many staff and vendors desperately salvaging their possessions and stalls from the encroaching inferno, while firefighters issued urgent evacuation directives, guiding them to safety.
Though some minor injuries were reported among employees fleeing the blaze, city authorities assured that none were deemed life threatening. In a daring escape, several vendors reportedly leaped into the adjacent waterways, swimming to safety, taking advantage of the market's network of canals and lakes.
Mayor Poramese Ngampiches arrived at the scene shortly after the blaze erupted, establishing a command center alongside senior firefighting officials to ascertain the precise origin of the fire and provide assistance to those impacted. The floating market, spanning roughly 60 acres and comprised predominantly of bamboo and wood structures, stands as a prominent tourist attraction in the area.
Boasting hundreds of vendors and stalls, the market typically welcomes thousands of visitors each day, predominantly Asian and domestic Thai tourists. Regrettably, the fire occurred after closing hours, resulting in a limited presence of individuals at the attraction during the incident.
