A train derailed before crashing a level crossing barrier in northeastern Thailand today (April 23).

The container locomotive was approaching the main station in Nakhon Ratchasima province when the brakes failed shortly after midday.

It overshot the rails and smashed through a barrier before skidding along the tarmac road in front of shocked drivers.

Officials arrived to push the carriages back onto the tracks, which held to traffic for around 45 minutes before cars could move again.

Police Lieutenant Yanphol Ongphun said: ‘The accident caused traffic jams in five major roads in the area as the scene of the crash was a link between these important roads.’

Investigators are now examining the site of the crash and train to find the reconstruct the cause of the accident.