A massive fire broke out at a plastic recycling factory in Maptaphut Subdistrict, Mueang Rayong District, Rayong Province. The fire, which started around 6:30 A.M. and was fueled by large quantities of plastic scraps stored inside the warehouse, quickly intensified, causing the factory roof to collapse. Despite workers’ initial attempts to extinguish the flames, the fire spread rapidly forcing authorities to deploy 12 fire engines. After more than three hours of firefighting, the fire was finally brought under control, but the factory was destroyed. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.
Residents recalled hearing multiple explosions before thick black smoke blanketed the sky, accompanied by a strong, widespread odor that spread across several kilometers. The governor ordered provincial and municipal officials to inspect the site and assist those affected. Meanwhile, the Rayong Provincial Pollution Control Center and the Industrial Estate Authority launched air quality checks within a 5-kilometer radius. Initial test results indicated normal levels despite concerns from the burning plastic fumes. Forensic officials are now investigating the cause, with damages estimated in the millions of baht.
