Picture courtesy of Naewna

 

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has called for calm following a powerful earthquake in Myanmar that sent shockwaves across Thailand. Engineers are hard at work inspecting buildings in Bangkok, ensuring safety and stability. Around 700 buildings were reported to have cracks, prompting immediate action to assess damage.

 

A team of 130 engineers, including 100 volunteers, is diligently inspecting affected structures. Notably, the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning is tasked with overseeing government buildings. Governor Chadchart mentioned that the main impact was in Bangkok's inner zones where highrise buildings are prevalent, with minimal effects in outer areas.

 

In line with safety regulations, certain buildings such as condos, hotels, and department stores undergo annual inspections. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has a roster of building inspectors with an additional 2,600 available if needed. These measures aim to reassure the public that buildings are designed to withstand seismic events.

 

 

 

Despite the earthquake hitting a staggering 8.2 on the Richter scale, only one incomplete building collapsed in Chatuchak. Rescue operations are underway as 15 individuals remain trapped, identified through thermal drone technology by the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation.

 

Approximately 700 residents, anxious about building safety, sought refuge in Bangkok's public parks overnight. Both BMA and private entities provided essentials such as food and water. Parks remain open round-the-clock today, with music and amenities offered for those seeking comfort.

 

The Governor remains committed to ensuring safety and providing transparent updates as the situation develops. Public reassurance and quick action underline the city's resilience amid this natural disaster.

 

Based on a story by Thai Newsroom

 

-- 2025-03-31

 

 

"Despite the earthquake hitting a staggering 8.2 on the Richter scale, only one incomplete building collapsed in Chatuchak."

 

Is the writer suggesting the earthquake still measured 8.2 in Bangkok when the epicenter was hundreds of kms away?

Very misleading article, if an 8.2 earthquake was actually centered on BKK the destruction would be catastrophic.