New Year celebrations and related parties lost their charm in Bangkok when one of the nightclubs caught fire and about 60 people died in the inferno. The flames spread quickly through the dance floor and charred the occupants beyond recognition. It is not clear what started the fire. The club was filled with both Thais and foreigners.

One witness felt he heard an electric explosion and the club had only one exit which made escaping the inferno an almost impossible task. Most of the dead died due to burns, smoke inhalation and injuries due to the resulting stampede. The city of Bangkok is known for its wild nightlife but most discos and clubs lack even the basic safety measures.

Many of the bodies were found in the basement of the nightclub and such events could do damage to the burgeoning Thai tourism industry which has already been affected due to the recession. The injured are being treated at the various hospitals and clinics across Bangkok. The event reminds us of the nightclub accidents in Buenos Aires a few years ago where many dozens died.

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Via: BBC