Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has ordered a comprehensive inspection of old buildings throughout the city, conducting structural X-rays and creating a database, with legal enforcement if any safety issues are found.
On 22 June 2026, Narong Ruangsri, Permanent Secretary of Bangkok, revealed that a concrete awning on the second floor of five old commercial buildings near Wat Traimit Witthayaram on Rama 4 Road in Samphanthawong district collapsed, injuring one person who later died in hospital, and damaging three cars.
Recently, BMA, together with the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning, the Engineering Institute of Thailand under royal patronage (EIT), and related agencies, secured the area, cordoned off the danger zone, temporarily banned use of the buildings, expedited debris clearance to reopen traffic, and established a command center to assist those affected. They have also ordered stricter proactive measures to prevent similar incidents.
As part of proactive measures, BMA’s Engineering Department and district offices have coordinated with the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning and EIT to appoint a task force to inspect old building structures. The focus is on buildings with long service life, similar construction types, or signs of deterioration.
Particular attention is given to awnings, beams, and external building components that appear unstable to assess safety. All district offices have been tasked to publicize and advise building owners or users to regularly check and maintain external building fixtures, which may be affected by age and weather, and to promptly repair or improve any detected defects to prevent hazards and ensure long-term public safety.
The public can request inspections of old building awnings through the Engineering Department’s Building Control Office via Line OA, Line ID: @bmaepermit, where a menu option allows users to submit inspection requests.
For long-term management, district offices have been instructed to form working groups with the Engineering Department and related agencies to plan surveys, inspections, and data collection on buildings with similar construction or high-risk characteristics. They will prepare risk assessment plans and prioritize buildings accordingly to support systematic safety measures and building management in the area.
However, if inspections find buildings or their components unsafe or posing risks to life and property, owners will be ordered to repair, improve, or comply immediately under the Building Control Act of 1979.
Thanks to the Facebook page of Bangkok Metropolitan Administration.