On May 6, 2025, significant developments emerged regarding the ongoing search and recovery efforts at the site of the collapsed Office of the State Audit Commission (STG) building in Bangkok. The building, which collapsed during an earthquake on March 28, has left many families in distress as they await news about their loved ones. Mr. Chatchai Sitthiphant, the governor of Bangkok, updated the public on the progress of the search operation, stating that only a few areas remain to be searched, particularly a staircase leading to the parking lot and a corridor connecting to the rear of the building. He expressed optimism that the search would be mostly completed within the next three to four days.
"Our primary responsibility is to locate those trapped and return them to their families; we cannot leave the bodies behind," Mr. Sitthiphant emphasized during a press briefing. He clarified that the operation does not involve demolishing the building but rather ensuring that all possible evidence is preserved for further investigation.
As the search continues, a team of forensic experts has been collecting evidence, with over 100 samples collected so far. This includes fragments of concrete and steel from the collapsed structure, which will be crucial in determining the cause of the collapse. Mr. Amor Phimanmas, president of the Structural Engineers Association of Thailand, stressed the importance of thorough sample collection, advising that samples should be taken from critical areas to understand the structural integrity of the building better.
Meanwhile, Health Minister Mr. Somsak Thepsuthin issued a warning regarding the risk of anthrax from consuming raw pork, urging the public to remain vigilant until the situation stabilizes. He stated that the government is working closely with relevant agencies to control and prevent the spread of the disease, which poses a serious health risk.
In a separate economic initiative, Deputy Finance Minister Mr. Julapant Amornwiwat announced a potential plan for a digital wallet scheme aimed at stimulating the economy. The proposal includes distributing 10,000 baht to 2.7 million young people aged 16 to 20, with discussions set to take place at the Cabinet meeting on May 6. This initiative aims to boost consumer spending among younger demographics, particularly in the wake of economic challenges.
However, not all news is positive. Moody's Investors Service has downgraded the credit ratings of seven Thai banks, citing concerns over the country's economic stability and fiscal risks. The banks affected include Bangkok Bank, the Export-Import Bank of Thailand, Kasikornbank, Krung Thai Bank, Siam Commercial Bank, SCB X, and TMBThanachart Bank. This downgrade reflects growing worries about the Thai government's ability to manage economic and financial challenges effectively.
On the ground, the search for survivors continues. Mr. Suriyachai Ruengroj, director of the Bangkok Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office, reported that the search operation had uncovered no additional bodies, despite thorough efforts to clear the debris. "We have opened up the entire area to confirm the facts as stated by the governor, and we are hopeful that we will not find any more victims," he said.
As of now, authorities have confirmed 87 fatalities, but only 45 bodies have been positively identified and returned to families. The discrepancy between the number of death certificates issued and the confirmed identities has raised concerns, prompting further investigation. The search team continues to analyze the debris, as there is still one pile of rubble that may contain additional victims.
Mr. Suriyachai also mentioned that the list of missing persons, reported to be 13, has been thoroughly investigated, but no additional victims were found in the building. However, he noted that some individuals might still be trapped beneath the rubble, and the team is committed to ensuring that every possible avenue is explored.
As the search and recovery operation progresses, the government faces mounting pressure to address the broader issues of corruption and mismanagement within the construction sector. Experts from the Thai Contractors Association have suggested that a 7% reduction in reference work values could provide a competitive advantage for local contractors, particularly in light of recent scrutiny over project management.
In the wake of these events, the Thai construction industry is urged to step up and restore public confidence. The need for transparency and accountability in government projects has never been more critical, as the nation grapples with the fallout from this tragic incident.
As the situation develops, the community remains hopeful for a resolution that brings closure to the families affected by the STG building collapse while addressing the underlying issues that have contributed to such tragedies in the past.