Rain narrowly prevented a disaster yesterday afternoon, as a storm closed a Ferris wheel at Dinosaur Planet Park in Bangkok shortly before it burst into flames.
Flames soared from the cabin about 2.30pm, and were clearly visible above the Sukhumvit skyline. Visitors fled the scene but no one was injured as the ride had been closed due to the weather.
Officials are investigating the cause of the fire, and say they are focusing on the possibility of a short circuit. Park executives said the ride would be closed indefinitely.
Klong Toey district office director Acharawadee Chaisuwirat said fire engines from several stations attended the scene and brought the blaze under control within 20 minutes.
The 500 million baht amusement park near Sukhumvit Soi 22 opened on March 25, and features several rides. The Dino Eye wheel is about five storeys high.
Video clips showing the flames and visitors fleeing the park after the fire circulated quickly online. The fire was clearly visible from the Phrom Phong BTS station, but visitors could still be seen lining up to buy tickets to enter the park at 3pm.
Park executive Vinij Lertratanachai told a radio station yesterday it was lucky no one was on the Ferris wheel when the fire broke out.
"I feel shocked at the incident and have to apologise for what happened," Mr Vinij said. "We have to temporarily close it until we finish repairs and restore confidence in safety."
