BANGKOK, Thailand – Bangkok authorities have confirmed plans to remove approximately 40,000 tonnes of debris from the collapsed State Audit Office (SAO) building in Chatuchak within the next 30 to 60 days. Governor Chadchart Sittipunt announced the decision on April 4 after overnight operations failed to access an area where life signals had previously been detected due to obstructive steel reinforcements and narrow voids.
More than 100 personnel, including international rescue specialists and USAR teams, took part in the attempt to reach the suspected location. Despite lifting heavy concrete slabs and widening access points, efforts were ultimately suspended after experts concluded there was no viable path. Heavy machinery will now be used to systematically clear the site, with rescue teams remaining on standby to respond immediately should any further signs of life be identified.
Structural assessments have estimated around 15,000 cubic meters of rubble remains. The operation will proceed in consultation with engineering experts, while the city explores long-term disaster resilience measures in partnership with countries such as Japan.
Deputy Governor Tavida Kamolvej confirmed that mental health support remains ongoing. Dedicated teams are assisting both victims’ families and rescue personnel. Medical professionals rotate through the site to manage emotional stress, physical injuries, and basic care needs, helping maintain operational continuity while minimizing disruption.
Permanent Secretary Wantanee Wattana, meanwhile, urged media outlets to clearly distinguish between visual content from Bangkok and Myanmar, following the spread of misleading images online. She reaffirmed that all victims at the Chatuchak site are under the royal patronage of His Majesty the King. Recovery efforts continue in coordination with state agencies, the military, volunteer organizations, and royal foundations, with authorities committed to completing the clearance and recovery in full.
