The death toll from a fire at a popular bar in Bangkok has risen to 33, authorities confirmed Wednesday, as the Thai government announced plans for a comprehensive review of safety regulations for entertainment venues nationwide. The blaze broke out late Sunday night at the Rong Beer Na Lad Phrao restaurant and bar, rapidly consuming the establishment and causing numerous fatalities and injuries.

Investigations into the fire’s cause and severity are ongoing, with early reports indicating that many victims were found near restroom areas. A video released by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s office during his visit to the site showed officials discussing the venue’s limited emergency exits. One official stated that although two exit doors were functional, one was marked as staff-only and lacked clear signage designating it as an emergency exit. Prime Minister Anutin remarked on this, noting that patrons likely did not recognize it as a fire exit. A rescue worker suggested the restriction was intended to prevent customers from leaving without paying.

Anutin also noted that another door potentially usable as an escape was locked during the incident, raising further questions about the bar’s safety preparedness. In response, the government has ordered immediate safety inspections of all entertainment establishments across Thailand. Authorities are reviewing how venues are classified and regulated after it emerged that Rong Beer Na Lad Phrao was regularly hosting live music performances despite lacking the appropriate license.

The premier emphasized that businesses failing to comply with safety and licensing regulations would face strict legal consequences. The owner of the bar was admitted to intensive care following the fire, though his current condition has not been disclosed.

Thailand’s enforcement of health and safety standards in nightlife venues has been under scrutiny for years, particularly following a deadly fire at Bangkok’s Santika club in 2009, which claimed 67 lives and injured over 200 people. Experts have noted that Rong Beer Na Lad Phrao lacked necessary safety systems to accommodate the large crowds and live events it regularly hosted.

According to the Erawan Emergency Medical Centre, operated by Bangkok city authorities, about 70 people were injured in the incident, with more than a dozen in critical condition as of Wednesday. Authorities continue their investigation into the tragedy as the government seeks to prevent similar disasters in the future.