An earthquake of magnitude 7.7 struck Myanmar on March 28, 2025, sending shockwaves that were felt across Bangkok and several surrounding provinces. The tremors began at approximately 1:22 PM local time, leading to a chaotic scene as residents experienced prolonged shaking. Reports indicated that the earthquake caused significant damage, including the collapse of a 29-story building under construction in the Chatuchak district.
In the immediate aftermath, many individuals in high-rise buildings across the city felt the tremors. Panic ensued as water from swimming pools overflowed from the ceilings of various structures, particularly in the Kamphaeng Phet 2 area. Videos circulated on social media, showing the dramatic collapse of the under-construction building, which was part of a significant project for the Office of the Auditor General (OAG).
At 1:42 PM, emergency services were deployed to assess the situation at Don Mueang Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport, as both facilities were also affected by the earthquake. By 2:04 PM, further inspections revealed extensive ceiling damage in the Kamphaeng Phet 2 area, and emergency responders were alerted to the potential for trapped individuals within the collapsed structure.
Reports indicate that approximately 50 workers were present inside the building at the time of the collapse. Initial rescue efforts managed to bring out 7 individuals, while 43 workers remained trapped inside. The building, which was still under construction, was intended to be a modern office for the OAG, with a budget of 2.136 billion baht and designed to adhere to the Integrity Pact aimed at ensuring transparency and preventing corruption in the construction process.
The earthquake's epicenter was located in the state of Kayin, Myanmar, approximately 480 kilometers northwest of Chiang Mai, at a depth of 10 kilometers. This seismic event has been classified as one of the most significant earthquakes to impact Thailand in recent years, creating widespread alarm and prompting discussions on social media platforms about safety and preparedness.
In the wake of the disaster, the National Institute for Emergency Medicine (NIEM) mobilized response teams to the site to conduct search and rescue operations for those trapped within the debris. However, the teams faced challenges due to communication disruptions caused by the earthquake, prompting the deployment of emergency communication vehicles to facilitate coordination among rescue efforts.
As the situation unfolded, the public's concern grew regarding the structural integrity of buildings in the area, particularly those under construction. The collapse of the OAG building raised questions about compliance with safety regulations and building codes. Experts are calling for immediate inspections of similar structures to prevent further tragedies.
Social media has played a crucial role in disseminating information and updates about the earthquake and its aftermath. Many individuals shared their experiences during the quake, with some expressing disbelief at the intensity of the tremors. Videos and images showcasing the chaos and damage have circulated widely, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
The government has announced that a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the cause of the building's collapse and assess the overall impact of the earthquake on infrastructure across the region. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any signs of structural damage in their buildings.
As rescue operations continue, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of those trapped and providing support to the affected families. The incident has sparked renewed discussions about earthquake preparedness in Thailand, a country that, while not frequently associated with significant seismic activity, has experienced its share of natural disasters.
In conclusion, the earthquake in Myanmar has had far-reaching consequences in Thailand, particularly in Bangkok, where the collapse of a major construction project has highlighted vulnerabilities in building safety and emergency preparedness. As rescue efforts proceed, the community stands united in hope for the safe return of those still unaccounted for.
