Bangkok: The Huai Khwang District Director confirmed that the fire occurred in a storage building and is preparing to declare it a hazardous area. However, open businesses remain unaffected and can continue operating as usual.

According to Thai News Agency, fire and rescue personnel brought water trucks to extinguish the fire at Route 66 Bangkok restaurant in Soi Soonvijai-Rama 9 (RCA), Rama 9 Road, Bang Kapi Subdistrict, Huai Khwang District, Bangkok. It took 30 minutes to control the fire. Initially, there were no people trapped inside.

Mr. Suriyachai Rawiwan, Director of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office, revealed that when the fire initially occurred, employees in the restaurant attempted to contain the fire with fire extinguishers, but were unable to control it and it spread. After notifying authorities, they quickly deployed water sprayers but encountered obstacles such as toxic gases from the soundproof walls and various equipment in the restaurant. However, the fire was quickly brought under control. Staff continued to spray water behind the restaurant to prevent heat buildup and the spread of the fire. Thermal imaging cameras were also deployed to monitor the situation.

Mr. Sombat Krueakiratham, Director of Huai Khwang District, revealed that the incident occurred in a storage area of a shop adjacent to the entertainment venue that serves customers. The operator is able to operate as usual.

Initially, authorities coordinated with Makkasan Police Station to declare the area a dangerous area, prohibiting all unrelated persons from entering. The Civil Engineering Department will then be dispatched to inspect the area, which is expected to take approximately one to two weeks.

As for Route 66, a legendary pub on RCA Road (Royal City Avenue), it has been open since 1996 and is well known among Thai and foreign tourists, and remains popular to this day.