Bangkok-
(April 6, 2025) Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, provided an update on the progress of assisting victims of the earthquake in Myanmar in a collapsed building in Bangkok. He stated that operations are proceeding according to strategy, with heavy machinery being used to clear pathways in areas where additional fatalities are suspected, particularly in Zone C.
The main challenge is removing the upper mound due to safety risks for workers. Clearing the mound requires creating an access route, so last night, the front building was demolished to allow large vehicles with extended reach to handle the upper debris pile. This task has now been completed. Moving forward, vehicles will enter from two directions: the front and the side. The side access involves breaking through the rear, which is land owned by the State Railway of Thailand.
Governor Chadchart added that last night, two more bodies were discovered and have since been recovered. The situation is improving as unstable areas are being cleared, and heavy equipment can now access the site more effectively. While it’s likely that more trapped individuals will be found, the chances of finding survivors are decreasing, and the number of fatalities is expected to rise.
He explained that the operational approach has shifted from a sprint to a marathon. Rescue efforts were initially like a 100-meter race, but now it’s a long-term effort to maintain continuity. Teams are being organized appropriately, with a focus on ensuring workers can sustain their efforts over time. Site management has improved, thanks to cooperation from various sectors.
Regarding the investigation into the incident, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is responsible for disaster management, while building inspections fall under the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning, as well as a committee appointed by the Prime Minister. These are separate operations, and the BMA’s role is to cooperate when inspection teams request data.
On the search for survivors after 10 days, the approach remains unchanged—there is still hope. Rescue teams are stationed at the site, and if large cavities or voids are found, rescue personnel and K-9 units are deployed to check for signs of life before proceeding. Operations run in parallel: heavy machinery works for 5-6 hours, and when a void is reached, the machines pause to allow rescue teams to investigate. Equipment issues are expected with continuous use, but preparations have been made, with repair and maintenance tools available on-site.
Progress is being made, with cavities linking Zones B and C starting to emerge. These zones are key entry and exit points for workers, as they connect to the rear building housing the office and staircases used by workers in the morning, midday, and evening. It’s believed there are voids below, and the two bodies found last night were in this area. It’s thought that some victims were attempting to escape toward the office. A program is now in use to identify where recovered individuals were located—such as their floor or company—providing a clearer picture of their escape routes. This technology was provided by international rescue teams.
As for the number of trapped individuals, further confirmation is needed. Police have emphasized that counting should only occur once full bodies are recovered to avoid duplication. The official tally will be confirmed by forensic teams.
