Tragedy Strikes Bangkok As Building Collapse Leaves Many Missing

On March 30, 2025, at 9:00 p.m., a tragic incident unfolded in the Tuk Som area of Bangkok when a newly constructed building for the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) collapsed. Rescue teams from USAR Thailand, comprising six to seven personnel, swiftly mobilized to the site, bringing with them essential equipment to search for any individuals who might be trapped under the rubble. Initial reports indicated that signs of life had been detected, prompting the urgent need for a thorough search.

However, rescuers faced significant challenges. Due to the precarious nature of the building's structure, only lightweight tools were permitted in the immediate vicinity of the wreckage. Heavy machinery was restricted to the outer edges to prevent further destabilization of the site. As the night progressed, the situation remained tense as rescue operations continued.

By 11:00 p.m., drone footage captured by the USAR team revealed ongoing efforts to excavate the site, utilizing tools such as large metal cutters and shovels. After approximately two hours of intense labor, the team had to return to safety, leaving the fate of those trapped uncertain.

As of 11:00 p.m. on March 30, the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department reported a grim update: a total of 11 fatalities had been confirmed, comprising eight men and three women. Additionally, nine individuals were injured, while a staggering 76 people remained unaccounted for, heightening the urgency of the rescue mission.

In the early hours of March 31, 2025, at 8:40 a.m., Bangkok Governor Chatchat Sitthiphanth addressed the media following a site inspection. He reassured the public that despite the 72-hour mark approaching since the disaster, the search for the missing would not cease. "We will continue our efforts, as international recommendations suggest that hope remains," he stated, emphasizing that the rescue teams would persist in their mission to locate survivors.

Governor Chatchat noted that following the earthquake that shook Bangkok, normalcy had returned to most areas, including traffic and public transport, except for the site of the collapsed building. He confirmed that only two other structures in the vicinity had been deemed unsafe, and authorities were working closely with the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department to coordinate relief efforts for the affected families.

The governor also highlighted the collaboration with private sector partners to support the families of those trapped. A service center had been established on-site, providing translators for Burmese and other languages to assist in communication with affected families. The focus, he reiterated, remained on the search and rescue of those still missing.

As the operation continued, rescuers reported having detected weak signals from potential survivors in zones A and C of the collapsed structure. These signals indicated that individuals could be trapped as deep as three to six meters below the surface, complicating the rescue efforts. The presence of debris and structural hazards made it difficult to ascertain whether the signals originated from living individuals or deceased victims.

In light of these challenges, the governor acknowledged the complexity of the situation. "Removing debris is not straightforward," he explained. "Each piece is welded together, and hastily removing one section could cause additional hazards. We must proceed carefully to avoid further risks to both the trapped individuals and our rescue teams."

As the rescue operation progressed, Chatchat confirmed that a 600-ton crane had been deployed to assist in the extraction of debris. He expressed optimism that the efforts would yield results, with the hope that individuals trapped within the building's elevator shafts and stairwells could be rescued. He emphasized the importance of engineering principles guiding the rescue mission, ensuring the safety of both rescuers and those still trapped.

The governor also addressed concerns regarding the potential for further structural collapses. Continuous monitoring of the building's integrity was being conducted, with safety measures in place for rescue personnel working in precarious conditions. "We have laser equipment to detect any movement of the structure, adhering to international safety protocols," he assured the public.

In a separate but related issue, Chatchat confirmed that a police report had been filed regarding unauthorized individuals attempting to remove documents from the disaster site. He reiterated that the area was designated as a disaster zone, and access was strictly regulated to ensure safety and security.

As the rescue efforts continued, the governor acknowledged the emotional toll on the families of the missing. "We understand the anxiety and despair that families are experiencing. We are doing everything within our power to bring their loved ones home," he said, reaffirming the commitment of the Bangkok administration to support those affected.

The situation remains fluid, with rescue teams working tirelessly to locate survivors amidst the rubble of the collapsed building. With 76 individuals still unaccounted for, the hope of finding more survivors continues to drive the efforts of all involved. The community stands united in support of the rescue teams, as they navigate the complexities of this tragic incident, determined to bring closure to the families affected by this disaster.