Bangkok:The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is accelerating efforts to remove debris left by the collapse of a building awning in the Din Daeng area. The incident, which occurred at night, involved a nearly 60-year-old commercial building. Fortunately, residents were rescued safely despite the entrance and exit being blocked by the fallen structure.
According to Thai News Agency, the president of the Structural Engineers Association emphasized that such incidents are common, particularly in older buildings. It was recommended that building owners and the BMA conduct regular inspections and maintenance to prevent similar occurrences.
Following the collapse, officials from the BMA's Public Works Department deployed machinery to clear the debris. As a precaution, electricity officials temporarily cut off the power supply. An assessment by the Din Daeng District Director confirmed that the main structure of the building remains safe, allowing residents to stay inside, though they are advised not to leave.
In the aftermath, one affected homeowner surveyed the damage and called for a swift restoration of power, citing the disruption to daily life. The concrete awning, built in 1967, is believed to have collapsed due to age. Prior to the incident, the awning was observed sagging, indicating potential structural weakness.
Professor Dr. Amorn Pimanamas, President of the Structural Engineers Association of Thailand, stated that the collapse of old building awnings is a recurring issue. While the exact cause of the Din Daeng incident is unknown, it shares common factors with similar cases, including structural deterioration and rusting of reinforcing steel due to moisture penetration. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to prevent such failures.
The professor highlighted that both the attachment method of the awning and inadequate drainage can contribute to structural failure, especially in older buildings with concrete structures over 60-70 years old. Building owners are urged to look for warning signs such as long cracks and rust, and to seek engineering assessments if necessary. Local authorities like the BMA have a duty to ensure building safety through periodic inspections and advisories to building owners.