Saraburi tissue factory shut down during blaze investigation

The provincial industrial office in Saraburi has ordered the temporary closure of a tissue paper factory, pending the outcome of an investigation into a massive fire yesterday.

The death toll from the blaze, at River Pro Pulp and Paper, located in the Hemaraj Industrial Estate in Nong Sang district, has reached eight, while two other employees remain unaccounted for.

Most of the victims were working on the second and third floors of the factory when the fire broke out at around noon yesterday.

Industry Minister Akanat Prompan has visited the facility, which was severely damaged by the fire. The factory’s roof collapsed during the blaze, obstructing firefighters’ access.

The provincial office will also inspect nearby factories, to ensure they are equipped with adequate safety and fire protection systems.