Dozens injured after construction equipment derails and crushes passenger carriages in the country’s north east.

At least 28 people have been killed and 64 others injured after a construction crane collapsed onto a moving passenger train in north eastern Thailand.

The crane struck the train as it was travelling along the track, derailing it and crushing several carriages. One carriage caught fire following the impact.

Officials said around 195 passengers were on board when the accident occurred at about 09:00 local time, or 02:00 GMT.

Rescue teams later evacuated all passengers, with many of the injured taken to hospitals across the region.

CBI News reports that the Thai government has ordered a full investigation into the incident, which follows a series of deadly accidents in recent years that have been blamed on safety failures.

The train had been travelling from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani province when the crane fell.

The equipment was being used in the construction of an overhead railway forming part of a China backed project to link Bangkok with neighbouring Laos.

A Chinese built high speed rail line already operates from Laos into south western China.

One survivor, train staff member Thirasak Wongsoongnern, told local media that passengers were thrown into the air when the crane struck the train.

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said those responsible must be held to account, calling for punishment for anyone found at fault.

“Accidents like this can only happen because of negligence, skipped procedures, deviations from the design, or the use of incorrect materials,” he said.

Among the injured are a one year old child and an 85 year old person. Eight of the wounded are reported to be in critical condition.

Thailand has seen numerous fatal construction accidents, often linked to weak enforcement of safety standards and regulations.