They also focussed on getting passengers from one train to another and also to the nearest station. The setting for the emergency evacuation practice was close to Hua Mak Station and Rail Link workers rehearsed a course of action in which passengers were shepherded from here to Ramkhamhaeng Station.
This section of the Airport Rail Link track was the scene of a real breakdown on 21 March. A train was stuck on the overhead rail for two hours in the morning. The cause of the breakdown was a power failure which also wiped out the air-conditioning.
Stifling heat led many passengers to walk along the track to the next station while several of those who stayed on board fainted. Airport Rail Link claimed they were unable to reach passengers stranded on the train because of the ones walking along the track.
A spokesperson said rehearsals to deal with emergencies would ensure staff were ready to handle any future crises. He noted that any issues exposed in yesterday’s practices would be sorted out for the next ones.
Staff practice emergency drills on Bangkok Airport Rail Link train
News in Asia
Staff responsible for the operation of Bangkok’s Airport Rail Link conducted simulated emergency evacuations of one of their trains early yesterday. Officials ran drills focussing on getting passengers out of trains in an emergency situation at a little after 01:00 in the morning.