Motorized Tugboat Sinks in Pa Sak River Near Wat Phanon Choeng Worawihan

AYUTTHAYA, THAILAND — A motorized tugboat suddenly sank in the Pa Sak River directly in front of the historic Wat Phanon Choeng Worawihan on Sunday, October 18, 2026 triggering a swift emergency response from marine police and river rescue units.

The incident occurred during midday as the vessel was navigating the busy waterway. For reasons still under investigation, the tugboat began taking on water rapidly before sinking beneath the surface near the temple banks, causing momentary alarm among local residents and river commuters.

Local marine rescue teams and harbor department officials rushed to the scene to secure the area and monitor for potential fuel leaks or environmental hazards in the river. Divers and safety inspectors were deployed to assess the submerged wreckage and ensure that navigation channels remained clear for other vessels passing through the historic waterways.

Fortunately, initial reports confirmed that the crew members managed to escape the sinking vessel safely, with no immediate casualties reported from the site.

Maritime authorities have cordoned off the immediate vicinity around the sunken tugboat to facilitate recovery operations. Marine engineers and investigators are currently working to determine the exact mechanical failure or navigational factor that led to the sinking, while arrangements for the salvage of the vessel are being finalized.

Environmental protection teams deployed oil containment booms around the site as a precautionary measure to prevent any potential diesel or lubricant spills from affecting the river's ecosystem. Officials noted that monitoring would continue until the vessel is completely salvaged and removed from the waterway.

Local tourism representatives and temple authorities expressed relief that the incident did not disrupt river tourism boats or ferry services operating near Wat Phanon Choeng Worawihan. They emphasized that maritime traffic is being safely managed around the cordoned zone while salvage crews prepare for the heavy lifting operations.