Bangkok Earthquake: 78 Missing After Building Collapse
Anguish hangs heavy over Bangkok as rescue crews race against time to find survivors trapped beneath the rubble of a collapsed high-rise building.
The structure, a future State Audit Office, crumbled in the aftermath of a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday, March 28, 2025, sending tremors hundreds of miles to the Thai capital. Khaosod English. The disaster has starkly highlighted the interconnectedness of seismic events and raised urgent questions about building safety standards.
The earthquake’s epicenter, located over 800 miles (1,287 kilometers) away in Myanmar, claimed over 2,000 lives there—a number expected to rise significantly as aid reaches remote areas. In Bangkok, the tremors triggered the collapse of the 30-story building under construction, leaving at least 18 dead and 78 missing.
For those with loved ones still unaccounted for, the wait is agonizing. Naruemon Thonglek’s partner, Kyi Tan, his son, and four of her friends were working on the 26th floor when the building fell. “My legs gave up,” she recounted, describing the moment she recognized the building on the news. “After the quake stopped, I called him, messaged him, but there was no response… Then I knew for sure that he must have been inside.”
Chanpen Kaewnoi faces a similar ordeal. Her mother and younger sister were working on the fifth floor. A survivor recounted their desperate attempt to escape, separated from each other in the blink of an eye as the building imploded.
The search for survivors continues, with authorities employing heavy machinery and specialized equipment. The 72-hour mark, considered crucial for finding survivors, has passed, intensifying the pressure on rescue efforts. While faint signs of life have been detected, only one person has been pulled alive from the wreckage so far.
Key Developments in the Aftermath of the Collapse:
- At least 18 confirmed fatalities in Bangkok.
- 78 individuals remain missing.
- Rescue operations are ongoing, but the critical 72-hour window has closed.
- Authorities are investigating the cause of the collapse.
- City-wide inspections of high-rise buildings have been ordered.
“Every second really counts,” emphasized Bangkok’s deputy governor, Tavida Kamolvej, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Historically, Thailand has experienced earthquakes, although typically of lower magnitudes. This tragic event echoes other building collapses worldwide, from the Rana Plaza garment factory collapse in Bangladesh in 2013 to the Surfside condominium collapse in Florida in 2021. These disasters underscore the crucial importance of stringent building codes and rigorous enforcement to protect lives and prevent future tragedies.
The Bangkok building collapse has sparked public outrage and demands for accountability. Critics are questioning the quality of construction and adherence to safety regulations. Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has ordered a comprehensive inspection of all high-rise buildings in the city, a move reflecting the gravity of the situation and the need to ensure the safety of existing structures.
The long-term consequences of this catastrophe are likely to be far-reaching. Beyond the immediate human cost, the collapse will undoubtedly lead to stricter building codes, increased scrutiny of construction practices, and potentially, a reassessment of urban planning in earthquake-prone regions.
As families continue their vigil, the focus remains on finding any remaining survivors. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the devastating power of natural disasters and the vital need for robust building regulations and disaster preparedness measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Could another earthquake affect the rescue operations?
Yes, aftershocks, common after a major earthquake, could further destabilize the rubble and pose significant risks to both trapped survivors and rescue workers. Authorities are monitoring seismic activity closely and taking precautions to ensure the safety of rescue teams.
What is being done to support the families of the victims?
The Thai government and various relief organizations are providing support to the affected families, including temporary housing, counseling services, and financial assistance. Efforts are also underway to connect families with resources to help them navigate the difficult process of identifying and recovering the remains of their loved ones.
