At least 15 people are believed to be trapped but alive under the rubble of a collapsed skyscraper in Bangkok following a powerful earthquake that struck Myanmar and Thailand. Rescuers have reported detecting signs of life and have successfully communicated with some of the survivors trapped under the 10-storey mound of debris. The situation remains dire as scores of construction workers are still unaccounted for, adding to the urgency as efforts enter their second day.
The 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit on Friday afternoon, resulting in a tragic death toll of hundreds at its epicenter near Mandalay, Myanmar. The tremors were felt across a wide area, including significant impacts reported in Thailand, China, and India. Particularly severe damages have been documented in the Saigaing region and Mandalay, with officials confirming over 1,000 deaths and more than 2,376 injuries.
In Bangkok, while the capital largely escaped extensive damage, the site of the collapsed auditor-general's office, located near the popular Chatuchak market, emerged as the focal point of the disaster. What was once an impressive structure of glass and steel has now turned into a mound of twisted metal and shattered concrete, complicating rescue efforts as over 400 workers were on site at the time of the quake.
Of these, 96 individuals are reported missing, eight have died, and another eight sustained injuries. The rescue teams have mobilized a variety of tools, including drones, sniffer dogs, cranes, and excavators. As of Saturday noon, rescuers confirmed that they had made contact with at least 15 individuals alive under the rubble, located 5 to 10 meters deep.
Among those who managed to escape was Ko Myint Kyaw, a Burmese construction worker who described the frantic moments of the quake. He recounted jumping off scaffolding just as the building began to collapse, resulting in the tragic loss of two of his colleagues whose bodies have already been recovered.
As rescue operations continue, some survivors have been heard shouting for help while others have been detected through their movements and body heat. Officials are expressing the need for calm as they navigate the complicated rescue logistics, often refraining from using heavy machinery due to the building's instability.
The emotional toll on families awaiting news of missing loved ones is palpable, with women gathered in makeshift tents, expressing despair and hope simultaneously. One woman, Naruemol, spoke of her desperation to see her husband, reflecting the grief felt throughout the community. In response, top government officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnweerakul, have vowed to leave no stone unturned in the search for missing individuals, emphasizing the importance of hope during this challenging time.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the building's collapse, with officials seeking answers within a week. The spirit of resilience remains alive as families and rescuers alike hold onto the hope of finding survivors in the rubble.
