Bangkok, Thailand – A 33-story skyscraper under construction in Bangkok collapsed following the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, 2025. The disaster has raised concerns about construction standards and international involvement, as the building was a joint project between Italian-Thai Development PLC and China Railway Engineering Corporation (CREC), a major state-owned enterprise from China.
Tragedy in Bangkok
The collapse of the high-rise resulted in at least 9 confirmed deaths and 32 injuries, while 83 people remain unaccounted for as of March 29. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with emergency crews working around the clock to locate survivors.
The Myanmar earthquake, which had its epicenter in the Shan State, sent shockwaves across neighboring Thailand, causing tremors felt as far as Bangkok. However, the affected skyscraper was the only significant structure in the Thai capital to suffer catastrophic failure, leading to questions about its structural integrity.
Investigations Underway
Authorities have launched an urgent investigation into the construction quality and compliance with earthquake-resistant building codes. Experts are examining the materials used and whether the building adhered to safety regulations.
Thailand’s Minister of Transport and Construction, Somchai Rattanapong, stated, “This is an unacceptable failure. We will hold accountable those responsible for any negligence in construction and oversight.”
The involvement of China Railway Engineering Corporation (CREC) in the project has brought international attention to the case. Critics argue that foreign contractors working on major infrastructure projects must be subjected to stricter scrutiny to ensure safety compliance.
Public Outcry and Safety Concerns
The collapse has fueled public debate over Thailand’s construction industry, particularly regarding the role of foreign contractors. CREC, a Chinese state-owned enterprise, has been involved in multiple infrastructure projects across Southeast Asia, raising concerns about construction practices and regulatory oversight.
Residents and construction workers have expressed fears about the safety of other projects in Bangkok. One survivor, Anan Supasit, a construction worker on-site when the collapse happened, described the moment the building came down: “I felt the ground shake, and then suddenly everything was falling apart. People were screaming, running for their lives.”
Myanmar Quake Devastation
Meanwhile, the earthquake’s impact on Myanmar has been catastrophic, with the death toll surpassing 1,600 and thousands more injured. The military junta has permitted foreign rescue teams to assist in relief efforts.
As Thailand grapples with the aftermath of the Bangkok collapse, authorities are expected to introduce stricter regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future. The tragedy has underscored the importance of rigorous safety standards in construction projects, particularly in earthquake-prone regions.
— For ongoing updates on the rescue operations and investigations, follow local news sources.
