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Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Panic briefly gripped parts of Bangkok as buildings were evacuated in response to reports of mysterious vibrations and cracks, despite official assurances that no earthquake had occurred in Thailand. The incidents unfolded around 10 am on March 31, affecting key locations like Building A of the Government Complex on Chaeng Watthana Road, the Ministry of Labour in Din Daeng, and court buildings on Ratchadaphisek Road.

 

Staff at several significant sites, including the Government Housing Bank in Huai Khwang and the Criminal Court, were evacuated as a precautionary measure. Rumours swiftly circulated after individuals reported tremors and observed unsettling cracks within buildings.

 

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra promptly addressed the situation, affirming that according to the Thai Meteorological Department, there was no seismic activity within Thailand. He reassured the public that any aftershocks from Myanmar posed no threat to the country.

 

 

 

Officials clarified that the concerning cracks were not new but pre-existing, yet building owners have been instructed to conduct thorough inspections to confirm the status and safety of the structures. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt emphasised that structural assessments are critical before buildings are cleared for re-entry.

 

The governor urged those unsure about a building’s integrity to consult the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning or the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) for an expert evaluation.

 

While evacuation decisions are left to individual organisations, officials underscored that such actions should rely on verified facts rather than social media speculation. In the absence of any confirmed seismic activity, the public is encouraged to remain calm and turn to official sources for reliable information, reported The Thaiger.

 

-- 2025-03-31

 

 

 

 

the people are scared. my GF owns several businesses and is refusing to go to meetings in any high rise building until the building management can produce satisfactory building surveyor's safety reports, she doesn't care how much money she may lose.