Thai Watchdog Warned About Skyscraper Before Deadly Collapse in Earthquake
An anti-corruption watchdog had previously raised concerns about irregularities in the construction of a Bangkok skyscraper that collapsed during last week’s earthquake, killing at least 11 people. The head of the Anti-Corruption Organisation of Thailand, Mana Nimitmongkol, revealed that government officials had considered canceling the project due to severe delays.
The 30-story tower, which was under construction for Thailand’s State Audit Office, was the only building in Bangkok to completely collapse when a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on Friday, affecting neighboring countries. Rescuers continued their search on Monday for 76 people feared trapped under the rubble.
The skyscraper was being built by Italian Thai Development PCL in partnership with China Railway Number 10 (Thailand) Ltd., a subsidiary of China’s state-owned China Railway Group. Neither company responded to requests for comment.
Government agencies have launched an investigation into the cause of the collapse, examining construction plans, materials, and safety standards. Industry Minister Akanat Promphan voiced concerns that sub-standard steel may have been used in the structure. Authorities collected samples from the debris for testing, with results expected soon.
Mana’s organization, which monitors government projects, had flagged potential corner-cutting, worker shortages, and a possible rush to complete the building. The delays were so severe that officials had threatened to terminate the construction contract in January.
Despite the powerful earthquake, no other buildings in Bangkok collapsed. Engineering experts suspect that the failure was due to poor materials or flawed construction processes. Anek Siripanichgorn, from the Council of Engineers Thailand, found it unusual that other tall structures remained intact while this one crumbled.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ordered a full investigation into the incident, with findings expected within a week. Meanwhile, China has pledged to cooperate with Thai authorities in the probe.
