BANGKOK (March 30): The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has urged building owners and occupants across the capital to appoint certified inspectors to assess structural integrity and carry out any necessary repairs, reinforcements, or upgrades to ensure public safety.

In a statement on Sunday, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt emphasised that the inspection process must be conducted within two weeks to ensure the safety of all occupants.

“This initiative aims to ensure the safety, stability, and functionality of buildings in compliance with engineering standards and relevant laws. Building owners are required to assist in these inspections, as annual checks are mandated by law,” he said.

He added that building owners must provide detailed information through a Google Form, including the owner’s name, the inspector’s name and licence number, and the inspector’s evaluation regarding the building’s safety or the need,or improvements.

“This collaborative effort will allow the BMA to monitor the overall condition of Bangkok’s buildings effectively,” Chadchart said.

The governor also revealed that residents of Bangkok have reported approximately 9,500 cases of structural concerns via the Traffy Fondue platform, a digital tool created by the BMA for lodging complaints.

Meanwhile, Chadchart announced that the BMA has requested individuals with permits for tower cranes and derrick cranes at construction sites to inspect these structures for stability and safety before use.

“This precautionary measure aims to prevent risks to public health, life, and property. The initiative underscores Bangkok’s commitment to safeguarding public safety and maintaining confidence in the usability of city infrastructure,” he said.

On Saturday, the BMA declared six severely damaged condominiums uninhabitable, following a powerful earthquake in Myanmar that caused significant tremors in the Thai capital on Friday.

The tremors resulted in widespread damage across Bangkok, including the collapse of a building under construction and cranes at various construction sites.

The death toll in Bangkok following Friday’s earthquake has risen to 17, with another 32 people injured and over 70 still reported missing.

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