Update on the collapse of a building awning near Wat Traimit: authorities are currently investigating the true cause of the incident and evaluating the building's structural stability.
At 16:57, the Samphanthawong District Office responded to the collapse of an awning near Wat Traimit Wityaram Worawihan on Rama IV Road. Fire and rescue teams from Suan Mali Fire Station and other rescue units arrived at the scene. Initially, a concrete slab from the second floor collapsed, causing one fatality. Officials and volunteers have recovered the body from the debris and are transporting it to the hospital.
According to Thanpicha, a local resident, at the time of the incident there was a loud crashing sound like a structure collapsing, followed by a cloud of white dust spreading out. This caused great alarm among nearby residents since most buildings and houses in the area are over a hundred years old.
"Whenever a vehicle passes by, the building always feels like it’s shaking, which has made me worried about its safety. Now with this incident, I feel even more afraid," Thanpicha said.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the exact cause of the incident and are assessing the structural integrity of the building to prevent any further dangers in the future.
Initial reports indicate that the collapsed structure is a two-story commercial building, quite old, with the concrete beam on the second floor having fallen. The cause is still unknown. The beam crushed a utility pole and damaged at least two parked vehicles. Officials are working quickly to secure the area out of concern for further collapse and have closed traffic at the site, causing congestion on Rama IV Road.
At 17:50, Chatchat Sittipunt, candidate for Governor of Bangkok, arrived at the scene to inspect the site.