On March 30, 2025, the tragic collapse of the Revenue Department building in Khlong Luang district, Pathum Thani Province, Bangkok, has resulted in a devastating toll, with authorities confirming a total of 10 fatalities and 83 individuals reported missing. The disaster struck amidst a search and rescue operation that has drawn significant attention and resources, highlighting the urgent need for effective emergency response measures.
The building, which housed the Revenue Department, collapsed under unclear circumstances, leading to a frantic search for survivors. Rescue teams, including the K9 USAR Thailand, known as the "Sniffer Dog National Team," were deployed to locate victims trapped beneath the rubble. As of now, the search operation has been ongoing for over 45 hours, despite challenging weather conditions and the hazardous environment created by the debris.
According to Mrs. Thawida Kamolvej, Deputy Governor of Bangkok, technology has been brought in to enhance search efforts. "We are using a scanner that weighs approximately 3 kilograms, which will be operated by experts from a crane to scan the rubble," she explained. This scanner can penetrate depths of up to 20 meters, potentially allowing rescuers to pinpoint the locations of trapped individuals more accurately.
As the rescue efforts continued, the grim discovery of additional victims was made. At approximately 2:00 PM, rescuers found the body of Mr. Wichan Jobsri, a 57-year-old Thai male rescue worker from the Pak Kret Foundation, marking the 10th confirmed death from the collapse. His body was retrieved from Zone B of the collapsed structure and subsequently sent to the Police Hospital's forensic institute.
The situation remains dire, with authorities expressing their commitment to finding all missing persons. "We will do everything possible to locate those still trapped within the building," a spokesperson for the rescue team stated. The ongoing operation involves three excavators working tirelessly to clear debris while ensuring the safety of the rescue workers.
As of March 30, 2025, at 6:00 AM, the Ministry of Public Health reported that the total number of injuries related to the collapse stands at 32 across Bangkok, with 17 casualties recorded in the vicinity of the Revenue Department. This tragic event has left families in anguish, as they await news of their loved ones.
In a show of solidarity and support, the Vietnamese government has also dispatched a task force to assist with rescue operations following a recent earthquake in Myanmar. Major General Pham Van Ty stated that the Vietnam People's Army's task force is divided into three groups to expedite search and rescue efforts. After arriving at Yangon International Airport on March 30, the team traveled nearly 500 kilometers to Naypyidaw, reaching the capital at around 3:00 AM on March 31.
"We will work closely with Myanmar's disaster relief committee to coordinate our efforts effectively," Major General Pham Van Ty said. The focus will be on methods and directions in disaster relief and rescue, particularly in Mandalay, where many victims remain trapped under collapsed buildings. The task force aims to reduce casualties and suffering as much as possible.
Vietnam's initiative to assist Myanmar underscores the importance of international cooperation in times of crisis. "Our forces are committed and unafraid of the challenges ahead," Major General Pham Van Ty added, emphasizing the determination of the Vietnamese rescue teams to carry out their mission swiftly and effectively.
The recent events in both Thailand and Myanmar serve as a stark reminder of the devastating impacts of natural disasters and structural failures. As rescue operations continue in Bangkok, the focus remains on locating the missing and providing support to the families affected by this tragedy. Meanwhile, the international community watches closely, ready to lend assistance where needed.
Authorities in Thailand are also addressing concerns regarding building safety standards in the aftermath of the collapse. Questions have arisen about the structural integrity of buildings in the area, and officials are expected to conduct thorough investigations to prevent future incidents.
In conclusion, the situation remains fluid as rescue efforts continue. The commitment of local and international teams reflects a collective determination to overcome this tragedy and restore hope to those affected. The coming days will be critical as search teams work tirelessly to find the missing and provide closure to families desperately waiting for news.
