Bangkok: Forensic investigators are set to examine the site of the recent fire at the Khlong Thom Center tomorrow, as the entire structure is slated for demolition. Bangkok Governor Chatchart Sittipunt visited the site to assess the situation and confirmed that while the overall fire situation has eased, residual heat persists under the steel structure. The Forensic Science Division is preparing for a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire.
According to Thai News Agency, Governor Chatchart inspected the progress of fire control efforts and outlined today's operational plan. He reassured that the management of hotspots is under control, although some remain. Officials are currently drilling into the building to access these hotspots, utilizing steel cutters and pliers to reach areas detected by infrared cameras. The re-ignition at a KFC restaurant was attributed to electricity release, but authorities have since controlled the situation.
This afternoon, machinery including excavators and bolt cutters, will be utilized to dismantle the steel structure, with expectations that the situation will be resolved within the next two days. Air quality monitoring across Bangkok indicates normal levels, with PM2.5 and PM10 levels reducing to non-hazardous levels after initially exceeding safety limits. Residents in nearby areas are advised to remain cautious and wear face masks.
The condition of injured patients from the incident has improved, with all being removed from ventilators and stable. About 200 affected citizens and vendors have registered for assistance at a One-Stop Service point established by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) at Wat Phra Phiren. The BMA is also working on relocating medical personnel affected by the fire.
Governor Chatchart detailed compensation and recovery measures for affected businesses, offering approximately 10,000 baht per business owner. The BMA is coordinating with nearby shopping centers to provide temporary selling space for vendors and is searching for affordable rental spaces. Affected vehicle owners are advised to file police reports for damage verification.
The Prime Minister has mandated stricter security measures for BMA property, with police cordoning the area. Shop owners must verify their identities before retrieving their belongings. Forensic investigators will only begin examining the site once it is deemed structurally stable, anticipated to be tomorrow.
Concerns over the fire prevention system, particularly the sprinkler system, will be addressed following a forensic inspection. The BMA had previously confirmed the functionality of the fire hydrant system. Helicopters were not used to combat the fire due to potential safety hazards, and the BMA is exploring the use of firefighting drones for future incidents.
Authorities are focusing on a three-pronged action plan: forensic investigation, controlling smoldering areas, and preparing the building for demolition. Structural instability due to collapsed beams and debris is a priority, with experts assessing safe access for officials. Forensic officers are expected to start inspections at 8:00 AM tomorrow, pending safe access, with the fire expected to be controlled within 1-2 days.
The fire's cause remains undetermined, with investigators awaiting evidence analysis. The building owner typically shuts off electricity around 8:00 PM, but the fire began near 9:00 PM, requiring further investigation into the events leading up to the incident. Safety remains a top priority, with continuous assessments of the building's stability before any personnel deployment.