A large flame tree collapsed in the grounds of historical Wat Phra Si Sanphet temple on Sunday, injuring four Spanish tourists – one seriously.
Emergency responders were called to Wat Phra Si Sanphet, part of the old royal palace in the heart of the Ayutthaya Historical Park, on Sunday afternoon. They reported that a large flame tree had fallen onto a walkway beside the temple ruins, trapping members of a Spanish tour group beneath its branches.
Four tourists were injured. Three women suffered minor injuries, while a man sustained a broken right rib and a severe fracture to his left leg. All were taken to Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Hospital for treatment.
Ayutthaya Historical Park is a Unesco World Heritage site and a major tourist attraction.
Authorities said the injured tourists were part of a group of 15 Spaniards visiting the site. The tree fell across the path without any warning as they were walking through the area.
Rescuers cleared branches and other debris away as they worked to free the injured visitors.
An initial inspection showed the base of the tree appeared hollow and showed signs of decay, officials said. There was neither rain nor a strong wind at the time. It was probable that age-related deterioration had weakened the tree, leading to it toppling over.
The investigation into the incident is continuing.
After the trapped visitors were freed and taken to hospital, workers used chainsaws to remove the fallen tree and secure the area. Police assisted the injured tourists and their families.
Ayutthaya governor Chawanin Wongsathitjirakarn later visited the injured tourists at hospital and gave instructions that they receive full assistance and medical care.
To prevent any similar incidents, the governor ordered park officials and the provincial natural resources and environment office to inspect all large trees at historical sites across the province.
Teams of arborists will assess the health and structural integrity of trees, to ensure the safety of both Thai and foreign visitors.