In a tragic incident that unfolded in Bangkok, the collapse of the new Office of the Auditor General building has claimed the lives of at least 44 individuals, with 50 more reported missing. The building, which was still under construction, collapsed on March 28, 2025, following a significant earthquake in Myanmar measuring 8.2 on the Richter scale. The seismic event triggered a series of aftershocks that have continued to rattle the region, with reports indicating 535 aftershocks recorded as of April 15, 2025.
The latest updates from the rescue operations, ongoing as of April 15, reveal that search teams have successfully recovered additional bodies from Zone C of the collapsed structure. Two more bodies were retrieved on the evening of April 14, as rescue teams worked tirelessly to clear debris and locate survivors trapped beneath the rubble. "We are doing everything we can to find those still missing and bring them home," said NAKON45 Anuwat Phoamphai, head of the rescue team.
As of the morning of April 15, the total number of individuals affected by the collapse has reached 103, including 44 confirmed dead and nine injured survivors. The ongoing efforts have faced numerous challenges, including the unstable condition of the remaining structure and the complexity of the debris removal process.
Governor Chatchart Sittiphan of Bangkok has been closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the importance of using heavy machinery and specialized equipment to expedite the search and rescue operations. "We have reduced the height of the collapsed building from 26 meters to 20.5 meters, which has allowed us to access more areas and locate additional victims," he stated during a press briefing.
The search has primarily focused on floors 24 to 29, where many construction workers are believed to have been trapped. According to the governor, "These areas are critical for our search efforts because we think there are a significant number of workers who may have sought refuge in stairwells or elevator shafts during the collapse."
In addition to the physical challenges, the emotional toll on families of the missing has been profound. Many have gathered near the site, anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones. "We are hopeful, but every passing hour makes it harder to stay positive," said one family member.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has mobilized a large workforce to assist in the recovery efforts, with approximately 500 personnel deployed to the scene. Local volunteers and rescue organizations have also joined the efforts, providing support and supplies to those working tirelessly to recover the missing.
As the search continues, officials have confirmed that they are taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of the rescue teams. K9 units have been deployed to assist in locating survivors, and the area has been divided into three zones for systematic searching.
Despite the grim circumstances, the determination of the rescue teams remains unwavering. "We will not stop until every person is accounted for," stated a rescue official. The BMA has also assured that any remains recovered will be treated with the utmost respect, with efforts made to return them to their families as soon as possible.
In the wake of the disaster, experts have been analyzing the impact of the earthquake and its aftershocks on the integrity of buildings in the region. The Department of Mineral Resources reported that aftershocks of varying magnitudes have continued to occur, with the latest tremor recorded at 2.3 on the morning of April 15.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the collapse, officials are also looking ahead to prevent such tragedies in the future. Discussions are underway regarding building regulations and safety standards to ensure that construction projects are equipped to withstand seismic events.
In summary, the ongoing rescue operations at the site of the collapsed Auditor General building reflect the resilience and solidarity of the Bangkok community. As families hold on to hope, rescue teams remain dedicated to their mission, determined to bring closure to the families affected by this heartbreaking disaster.
