Myanmar Earthquake Raises Alarm on Thailand’s Disaster Preparedness and Building Safety
BANGKOK — The recent earthquake that struck Myanmar has raised critical questions about Thailand’s disaster response and building safety, especially after the collapse of the 33-story State Audit Office building in Bangkok. As of Sunday, March 30, 2025, nearly 48 hours after the collapse, the search for survivors continues, with around 70 workers still unaccounted for, including several Myanmar nationals.
The incident has raised serious concerns, particularly as it was the only building to collapse during the earthquake, despite numerous high-rises being under construction across the capital. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has demanded an investigation within seven days to understand why the structure failed when others remained intact.
The building, which was set to house the State Audit Office, a key agency responsible for overseeing government spending, was being constructed by a joint venture between the Italthai Group and China Railway Number 10 Group. The Chinese embassy in Thailand has faced criticism for its initial silence, only later offering condolences without addressing the involvement of the Chinese state-owned enterprise in the project. This has fueled growing anti-China sentiment on social media and raised questions about accountability.
The earthquake also highlighted Thailand’s lack of an effective disaster response system, particularly in terms of emergency SMS alerts. Many citizens, including this reporter, did not receive any timely warnings, leading to confusion and panic. The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has defended the system, stating that the cell broadcasting system will be operational by June, nearly 20 years after the 2004 tsunami disaster.
In the aftermath, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has ordered structural integrity inspections for 160 high-rise buildings in the city. Two condominiums have already been deemed unsafe. The government has vowed to review construction criteria for high-rise buildings and strengthen safety regulations moving forward.
Thailand’s response to Myanmar’s devastation has been swift, with a team of 55 personnel dispatched to assist in the affected areas of Naypyidaw and Mandalay. However, as the crisis continues, experts are urging the government to not only improve disaster preparedness but also ensure stricter construction oversight to prevent future tragedies.
This earthquake serves as a harsh reminder of Thailand’s vulnerabilities and the pressing need for comprehensive reforms to safeguard its citizens and infrastructure.
