Bueng Kan: Relatives and community members gathered at Wat Pa Wiwek Thamkhun in Bueng Kan Province this morning for the cremation ceremonies of the 18 victims from the tragic bus accident involving a study group from Por Charoen Municipality. The accident occurred as the bus overturned on Khao Sala Pu Thon in Prachin Buri Province.
According to Thai News Agency, the ceremonies began with a chanting session for 13 of the deceased at Wat Pa Wiwek Thamkhun, presided over by Phon Charoen District Chief, Mr. Montree Charuthamrong. Following the religious rites, the bodies were moved to temporary crematoriums, where they were adorned with flowers in preparation for the cremation scheduled for 2:30 p.m. The ceremony was attended by Mr. Songsak Thongsri, Deputy Minister of the Interior, and Mr. Jumpot Wannachatsiri, Governor of Bueng Kan Province, along with other government officials, monks, and community members. Descendants of the deceased also participated in a merit dedication ritual.
At Wat Wiwek Phatthanaram, funeral rites for the remaining four victims commenced at 10:00 a.m. The religious ceremony included a sermon by Phra Ratchamongkolwachiratham, also known as Luang Pu Bunma Kamphirathammo, from Wat Pa Si Phanom Prachakom in Sakon Nakhon Province. The rites involved laying down the cloth and cremation, concluding around noon. The presiding officials then proceeded to Wat Pa Wiwek Thammakhun to participate in the afternoon ceremonies.