1-4-2025 (BANGKOK) Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has launched a comprehensive campaign to rebuild international trust, whilst addressing mounting concerns over construction standards in the nation’s capital.
The collapse of the newly constructed State Audit Office (SAO) has prompted a swift governmental response, with forensic investigations already underway. Speaking at the inauguration of the Thailand Investment and Expat Services Centre in Bangkok’s premier business district, the Prime Minister sought to quell anxieties by emphasising that the structural failure was an isolated incident.
Bangkok’s Governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, reported that the metropolis has largely returned to normal operations, with public transport networks functioning smoothly. However, localised disruptions persist near the collapse site in Chatuchak and crane removal operations in Bang Sue.
A thorough assessment of the city’s infrastructure has revealed concerning findings, with authorities processing more than 13,000 inspection reports. Whilst most cases involve superficial damage, two structures have been declared uninhabitable, forcing approximately 2,000 residents to seek alternative accommodation. Emergency shelter provisions have been implemented through public-private partnerships.
The construction consortium responsible for the ill-fated SAO building, Italian-Thai Development PCL (ITD), has issued a formal apology and committed to supporting affected families. The firm maintains that its other projects remain structurally sound, though its future relationship with government contracts hangs in the balance.
Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Industry Minister Akanat Promphan are spearheading an urgent investigation into the building materials used, with preliminary findings expected imminently. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has indicated that criminal proceedings may be considered, though no decision has been made regarding ITD’s potential blacklisting.
The administration’s rapid response underscores its determination to maintain Thailand’s reputation as a safe investment destination, with PM Shinawatra emphasising that most Bangkok structures comply with stringent earthquake resistance regulations. A comprehensive probe into the project’s approval process, design specifications, and construction methodology is currently in progress.
