Landslide in Phang Nga: One Body Recovered

A landslide occurred in Moo 3, Bang Toei Subdistrict, Mueang Phang Nga District, on the afternoon of November 17, around 14:30, burying a worker who was in the quarrying area at the time. Emergency response teams launched an extensive search operation that extended overnight, hoping to locate the missing individual.

On the morning of November 18, at 08:00, Mr. Pairat Petchyuan, Deputy Governor of Phang Nga, took charge of the ongoing operation. Teams from local authorities, including the Mueang Phang Nga District Office, Bang Toei Municipality, village leaders, and volunteers, continued the search effort. By 09:00, they successfully recovered the body of the missing worker, who was found beneath the debris.

The landslide occurred in an area characterised by steep limestone slopes, which are prone to water retention, making the region especially vulnerable to rock and landslides. Heavy rainfall, including a significant downpour on the night of November 16, is believed to have contributed to the landslide. The incident also caused damage to a backhoe which was parked at the scene before the landslide.

In response, the Bang Toei Municipality has declared the area a danger zone and has prohibited public access. Geological experts have been called in to assess the site’s stability before any decisions on reopening access routes are made.

Authorities have urged residents to stay vigilant, closely follow safety updates, and avoid the area until further assessments are completed.

Picture from responders.

-- 2024-11-19