A fire tore through part of the iconic Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok late on February 9, leaving at least 28 shops damaged and prompting a swift emergency response across the capital.
The blaze was first reported at around 10.42pm near Gate 1 of the sprawling market complex in the Chatuchak district. Witnesses described thick plumes of smoke and flames rising above the tightly packed rows of stalls, triggering concern among nearby residents and business owners.
Fire crews from multiple districts were immediately deployed to the scene, as authorities worked to contain the flames before they could spread further through one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations.
Fire Originated in Clothing Stall
Initial findings indicated that the fire began in a single-storey clothing shop located in Section 17 of the market. The structure reportedly featured a corrugated iron roof and housed flammable materials, conditions that may have accelerated the spread of the blaze to adjacent units.
Emergency teams from Sutthisan, Phaya Thai, Lat Yao, Lat Phrao, Bang Po, Bang Son, Samsen, Suan Mali and Phu Khao Thong were mobilised to tackle the inferno. Firefighters worked intensively for more than half an hour before bringing the situation under control at approximately 11.15pm.
Preliminary assessments suggest that roughly 240 square metres of commercial space were affected. While 28 shops were confirmed damaged, the total financial impact remains under evaluation.
No Injuries Reported, Investigations Ongoing
Fortunately, no casualties were recorded. The incident occurred after operating hours, when vendors and visitors had already left the premises, preventing what could have been a far more serious outcome.
Investigators are now examining the site to determine the exact cause of the fire. Authorities have not ruled out possibilities such as an electrical fault, accidental ignition or other factors. A full forensic assessment is expected in the coming days.
In a separate incident in southern Thailand, a warehouse storing consumer goods in Nakhon Si Thammarat also caught fire after business hours. That blaze reportedly caused extensive property damage, with early media estimates placing losses between 60 million and over 100 million baht — equivalent to approximately S$2.3 million to S$3.9 million. Three nearby vehicles were also damaged.
As Thailand continues to strengthen fire safety compliance and commercial property insurance standards, these incidents highlight the risks faced by densely packed retail spaces. Business interruption insurance and fire damage coverage are likely to come under renewed focus following the destruction at one of Bangkok’s most visited markets.
Authorities have assured the public that investigations are ongoing and that updates will be provided once the cause of the Chatuchak market fire is confirmed.