Prayer Hall Collapse at Wat Amornyatsamakom Causes 8 Million Baht Damage

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Picture courtesy of 77kaoded

 

A two-storey prayer hall at Wat Amornyatsamakom in Ratchaburi province unexpectedly collapsed yesterday, causing extensive damage estimated at approximately 8 million baht. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident, which took place around 5.20pm.

 

Suwitchat Nawamphet, the district chief, promptly visited the temple in Mueang district's Thana subdistrict following the collapse. He was joined by Phra Khru Amorn Wisutthaporn, the abbot and district chief monk, along with other monks and local residents, who were busy clearing debris and salvaging items such as alms bowls and kitchen equipment from the wreckage.

 

Phra Khru Amorn Wisutthaporn noted that the prayer hall, serving both daily meals and prayer sessions, had shown signs of structural weakness two days earlier. Plans were underway to have a contractor demolish the building, but the collapse occurred unexpectedly before the scheduled work on March 13.

 

 

The prayer hall, constructed in 1970, had suffered significant termite damage, which contributed to its sudden deterioration. As a safety measure, monks have been advised to avoid the vicinity and instead walk beside the hall.

 

Efforts are now focused on dismantling the unstable structure to prevent additional damage, especially with the risk of rain. While plans for rebuilding the hall remain uncertain, immediate priorities include ensuring safety and clearing the affected area, reported The Thaiger.

 

-- 2025-03-13