Athipat Wichan, leader of the Thai indie band Thotsakan, is mourning the loss of his girlfriend, Nahathai, who died in a devastating inferno that engulfed a bar in Thailand.
The deadly fire has reignited concerns about fire safety standards across the country, particularly for entertainment venues. Thai authorities are investigating the incident to determine if negligence contributed to the tragedy. Survivors have reported that doors were locked and emergency exit signage was absent.
These reports have led to questions about whether relevant government agencies should also be held accountable for failing to enforce regulations properly. Athipat echoed these sentiments, expressing a wish for higher safety standards in venues so that performers can enjoy their time without constant worry.
"These days, I believe that if I or anyone from my band goes on stage, they'll think about [the fire] and feel alarmed and uncomfortable," Athipat told BBC Thai.
| Athipat Wichan (left) and others clasp their hands together during a funeral ceremony
The band plans to take time to grieve, but Athipat indicated they would eventually re-establish their balance and continue their music, urging fans to await their future endeavors.
Meanwhile, guitarist Chanate Trasing is reconsidering his career in music due to the safety risks and his responsibility to his family, which includes a young child. "If you ask me if I love it, I do. I quit a regular job to focus on music... [But] I have to think about it again. I believe everyone has fears," he said.
| Guitarist Chanate Trasing sits during an interview with BBC Thai.
Despite the trauma, Chanate also holds onto the memory of the bar-goers' enjoyment of the band's music just before the chaos unfolded.
| Search and rescue teams inspect the interior of the bar, which is almost entirely charred.
| A man speaking in front of a building, and on the right the inside of a burned building with tables and chairs.