Bangkok: Lat Krabang district officials are actively surveying high-risk areas in preparation for potential flooding during the upcoming election day. The proactive measures are part of a broader effort to ensure voter safety and accessibility amidst the city's recurring flood challenges.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chaiwat Sathavorawichit, the People's Party's candidate for Bangkok Governor (number 10), recently visited the site of a building collapse at Mo Mi Intersection in Sampanthawong District. During his visit, Mr. Chaiwat expressed his condolences to the victims and highlighted the precarious nature of daily life in Bangkok, referencing another recent tragic event, the train-bus collision at Makkasan Intersection.
Initial investigations suggest the collapse involved a section of the building's balcony with an overhanging awning, rather than the entire structure. Authorities are tasked with uncovering the cause. Under the Building Control Act, BMA officials, including inspectors and civil engineers, are empowered to review older buildings and mandate necessary structural corrections. Failure to comply allows the BMA to undertake repairs and seek compensation from the owners, underscoring a commitment to public safety.
Mr. Chaiwat emphasized the need for the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to prioritize public safety by addressing construction safety protocols, mandating the release of CCTV footage, facilitating direct insurance claims for victims, and investigating underground cavities causing collapses. He also advocated for regular earthquake drills and assessments of high-rise buildings' structural integrity.
Mr. Amorn Pimanamas, President of the Structural Engineers Association of Thailand and a member of the BMA management team, conducted a site inspection and suggested potential causes of the collapse, including rust in steel reinforcements and insufficient anchor points. He recommended a thorough inspection of the remaining structure and neighboring buildings with similar construction styles to prevent future incidents.
Mr. Chaiwat offered support to those affected and urged relevant agencies to determine the incident's cause and ensure fair compensation for victims.