On May 5, 2025, authorities in Bangkok are intensifying their search efforts at the site of the collapsed Office of the Auditor General building, which fell victim to an earthquake on March 28. The latest updates reveal that a total of 109 individuals have been affected by this tragic incident, with 86 confirmed dead, 9 injured, and 14 still missing. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has closed the site for four days to conduct thorough search operations, focusing on the area known as "Chong Ban Dai ST 1 Lad Luang Fang Sai." This site is critical as it may hold the last remaining victims, and the search teams are utilizing heavy machinery to clear the rubble.
Governor Chatchart Sitthiphan has been closely monitoring the situation and provided updates on the search progress during a press conference held on-site. He stated, "The search has progressed to Zone SC2, where we have reached the basement level. We are preparing to move to the final zone, SC1. We initially estimated that eight individuals were missing, but after further investigation, we have identified six additional missing persons, bringing the total to 14." This revelation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by search teams as they navigate through the debris.
The BMA has mobilized significant resources, including excavators and heavy machinery, to expedite the search process. As of the latest reports, the search teams have successfully recovered the bodies of 45 to 46 victims, with efforts continuing to locate the remaining individuals. Governor Chatchart expressed his hope that the remaining missing persons might be found soon, stating, "We have opened up many areas, and we expect to find the remaining individuals within the next few days." He emphasized the importance of transparency and thoroughness in the ongoing investigation.
In a related note, concerns have been raised by experts regarding the collection of evidence from the site. Mr. Amorn Pimanas, president of the Structural Engineers Association of Thailand, highlighted the critical nature of this phase, urging authorities to preserve vital evidence, particularly concrete samples. He proposed five methods for collecting evidence and insisted that no materials should be destroyed until all facts are established. Governor Chatchart acknowledged these concerns, stating that the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning has taken the suggestions into account and is working to ensure that evidence collection is handled appropriately.
As the search efforts continue, the BMA has reassured the public that the primary focus remains on locating the missing persons rather than demolishing the remaining structure. Governor Chatchart noted, "Our main responsibility is to find those who are still missing and return their bodies to their families. Once we have completed our search, we will return the site to the responsible authorities for further action." This statement reflects the administration's commitment to both recovery and responsible governance.
As of the latest updates, the search operation has been ongoing since the site was closed on May 4, 2025, at 18:00. Authorities are hopeful that they will be able to complete the search within the next 3-4 days, allowing them to assess which areas can be officially declared clear of victims. Governor Chatchart stated, "After the search is complete, we will evaluate together which areas can be officially closed for recovery operations, after which we will hand the site back to the building's owners for further actions." This indicates a structured approach to recovery and accountability.
In light of the tragedy, the governor has also addressed the broader implications of the earthquake, emphasizing the need for stringent building regulations and safety measures in Bangkok. He remarked, "This incident serves as a critical lesson about the importance of building integrity and transparency in construction processes. While the law governing construction is effective to some extent, we must ensure that all buildings meet the highest safety standards to prevent similar tragedies in the future."
The ongoing search and recovery efforts not only highlight the resilience of the rescue teams but also the community's commitment to supporting the families affected by this disaster. As the situation develops, both the government and citizens remain hopeful for a resolution that brings closure to the families of the missing individuals.
As the city grapples with the aftermath of this devastating event, the focus remains not only on recovery but also on learning from the incident to enhance safety protocols for future construction projects. Governor Chatchart's leadership during this crisis has been pivotal in ensuring that all efforts are directed towards the safe recovery of the missing while maintaining a transparent dialogue with the public.
