The massive fire at a furniture factory in Lat Krabang district was finally brought under control at 7am today, nearly 40 hours after it started.
The cause of the fire, which started on Sunday afternoon in Chalongkrung Soi 55, is still under investigation. Initial reports suggest it may have been triggered by the careless discarding of cigarette butts.
Although the blaze has been extinguished, authorities remain concerned that the thick, black smoke released during the fire may be toxic.
Moreover, the water used in the firefighting efforts may have become mixed with toxic chemicals from the factory, potentially contaminating water sources in nearby communities.
Industry Minister Akanat Promphan said that a mobile unit, from the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand, has been assigned to inspect air pollution levels and possible chemical leaks in the area.
An initial inspection has revealed that the factory is registered as a stockpile warehouse. If it was being used for production, that would be a violation of the law, he said.
The air quality in the area appears poor and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration advises people to avoid the vicinity.
