Bangkok Earthquake Response: April 9, 2025 Update

By Kasim Sheerazi

Photo credits to Wason Wanichakorn, AP Photos

On March 28, 2025, at about 12:50 p.m. local time, Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city with about 1.5 million people, was hit by a 7.7 magnitude earthquake. The U.S. Geological Survey reported the epicenter was 10 miles northwest of Sagaing, a nearby town, according to USGS. The quake caused widespread devastation, with more than 3,500 recorded deaths, Reuters reported.

Though centered in Myanmar, tremors were felt across northern, northeastern and central Thailand, including Bangkok. While weaker than at the epicenter, the seismic waves caused significant disturbances.

In Bangkok, one of the most serious incidents was the collapse of a high-rise under construction for the State Audit Office on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road. The disaster resulted in 29 confirmed fatalities, 33 injuries and 77 missing workers, according to AP News.

The tremors caused structural damage across Bangkok, ranging from minor cracks to major defects. In the following days, many office workers reported feeling additional vibrations, prompting evacuations and urgent safety inspections. This led to disruptions and growing concerns about Bangkok’s infrastructure resilience.

A NIDA Poll survey from April 1-3 found that 68% of respondents were concerned about their buildings’ structural safety, while 59% doubted the effectiveness of the country’s early warning systems, according to the Bangkok Post.

In response to public concern, AP Thailand Public Co. announced on April 4 the creation of a specialized "War Room," led by senior executives. The company launched structural assessments across 82 residential projects.

Vittakarn Chandavimol, chief corporate strategy and creation officer, said the company responded immediately to ensure resident safety, coordinating inspections to assess structural damage.

“We mobilized all available resources to ensure every resident can safely navigate this incident,” he said, according to the Bangkok Post.

As of April 8, 2025, there have been no new casualties or major collapses reported in Bangkok. Rescue and relief efforts continue in Thailand and Myanmar. The incident has sparked discussion about urban planning, building safety and emergency preparedness.

Authorities are investigating the collapse, continuing efforts to locate missing individuals, and assessing the structural integrity of buildings throughout Bangkok.