(30 Mar. 2025 at 09.05 hrs.) Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok provided an update on the situation following the earthquake that occurred last Friday. The primary focus now is on the rescue operation at the collapsed building in Chatuchak district. The process continues to focused on finding survivors. Today entered the 48-hour mark, or the second day of the operation. This morning, vital signs were detected in Zone A, and efforts are being intensified to locate those still showing signs of life. The operation is proceeding according to established protocols, with experts providing guidance on-site. Additionally, more fatalities were discovered this morning, but the official number of fatalities is still awaiting confirmation.
“The current situation is that we are proceeding with utmost effort and full capacity. We are also receiving assistance from many countries, including the United States, the People’s Republic of China, and Israel, who will send additional equipments to support the BMA. The BMA has coordinated on-site to divide the area for rescue and manage recovery operations, and we have not yet lost hope. We affirm that we are doing our best because we believe there is still a chance of finding survivors inside,” emphasized Governor Chadchart.
The Governor also stated that a potential challenge today is that there is 60% chance of rain, according to the forecast by the Meteorological Department. However, after discussing with the incident commander on-site, it was determined that this would not impact the rescue efforts, as the buildings are still interconnected by steel. Governor Chadchart expressed concern about the drainage around the buildings, which has been affected by the dust released during the collapse, potentially causing pipe blockages. All officers concerned are working at full capacity to ensure water can drain effectively. “Please be assured that our officers are working to their utmost efforts and have been fully equipped,” said Governor Chadchart.
Regarding traffic around the Din Daeng expressway, a crane is still hanging in the area. Approximately 80% of its removal has been completed. A meeting will be held again at 10.00 hrs. today to determine whether normal traffic can resume tomorrow. A confirmation will be provided around 12.00 hrs. As for the Yellow Line sky train, it will be operational at around 12:00 hrs. today. However, the Pink Line, serving the Chaeng Watthana – Ram Inthra route, will likely be open tomorrow, as signaling systems need to be thoroughly checked. This is not a major concern, as the Pink Line acts as a feeder line with alternative transportation options such as vans and motorcycle taxis available.
For the contingency plans in case the Din Daeng expressway cannot be reopened on Monday, the management will be under the authority of the Expressway Authority of Thailand. If reopening is not possible, we may request cooperation and recommend that companies announce ‘Work from Home’ policies. This is essential because the Din Daeng expressway is a major artery used by Bangkok residents traveling north, which also impacts Vibhavadi Rangsit Road.
Regarding the structural safety of buildings in Bangkok, approximately 9,500 reports have been received through Traffy Fondue. The team has been assessing the situation overnight to identify severely damaged buildings. Today, over 100 buildings will be inspected by 20 teams of volunteer engineers. Building owners are also responsible for conducting inspection, as they have an annual inspection obligation. Yesterday, owners were instructed to re-inspect their buildings to assist the official inspection teams. For victim compensation, the government allocated a budget yesterday. The official procedures for providing assistance and compensation will be announced soon, with a focus on expediting the process while adhering to regulations and laws. The initial budget is approximately 200 million baht, which may include search and rescue costs and other operational expenses.
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