Thai PM Criticises Slow Investigation into State Audit Office Collapse

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Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has voiced her frustration over the sluggish pace of the investigation into the tragic collapse of the State Audit Office tower in Bangkok, despite promises for a speedy inquiry. During her "Empowering Thais" broadcast, the Prime Minister criticised the Department of Public Works and Town & City Planning for their 90-day timeline, which contrasts with typical investigations that can take up to two years. Nonetheless, Shinawatra feels this timeframe is still too prolonged given the severity of the incident.

The unfinished 30-storey tower in Chatuchak collapsed following a 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar on March 28, resulting in a significant loss of life. With the official death toll now at 109, Bangkok Deputy Governor Tavida Kamolvej confirmed the rubble has been cleared to the building's basement, allowing further recovery operations.

Forensic police have identified 63 of the 100 bodies recovered. Among them, 46 were Thai, 15 from Myanmar, with a Cambodian and Lao victim each being identified, reflecting the international workforce involved in the construction.

Prime Minister Shinawatra stressed the urgency for answers, questioning why such a major catastrophe remains unresolved. "As a human being, I cannot accept [having no answers]," she expressed, underscoring the tragedy's impact on global families.

The investigation includes efforts from four other organisations, each conducting simulations and analyses to uncover the cause of the collapse. Their findings will eventually be compared to pinpoint the most plausible explanation. Shinawatra's comments reflect a demand for accountability and a speedy resolution to assist affected families and prevent future tragedies.

This case highlights the ongoing debate over procedural efficiency versus the quality of investigative findings in public safety and infrastructure readiness in earthquake-prone regions.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-05