BANGKOK — The Thai government has revoked Bangkok’s disaster designation, nearly one week after the powerful March 28 earthquake rattled the capital and multiple provinces. The decision, effective April 3, marks a return to normalcy for most of the city—except for the collapsed construction site of the new Kingdom of Thailand office building in Chatuchak District, where search efforts persist.

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The disaster status, enacted under the 2007 Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act, was lifted after assessments confirmed stabilized conditions across Bangkok. However, rescue teams remain at the Chatuchak site, where heavy machinery and sniffer dogs are deployed to locate workers still trapped beneath debris. Chatuchak District Director has been appointed to supervise recovery operations, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and legal procedures.

While the immediate threat has subsided, the earthquake—which sent tremors through high-rises and disrupted infrastructure—has exposed gaps in urban resilience and construction standards. Authorities vow a full investigation into the building collapse, with commitments to compensate affected families, enhance earthquake-resistant building codes and conduct citywide structural audits.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's Disaster Prevention & Mitigation Center has lifted its 28 March disaster area declaration after the quake damage has stabilized, the impacts are resolved, and the district can manage the aftermath. The announcement was made on 31 March. pic.twitter.com/OQfbUt01dy

— PR Thai Government (@prdthailand) April 1, 2025

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin emphasized, “This incident must serve as a wake-up call. We will ensure stricter enforcement of safety regulations to prevent future tragedies.”

With Bangkok’s disaster status lifted, businesses and transit systems have resumed normal operations. Yet, the Chatuchak collapse site remains cordoned off as the nation mourns the 72 missing workers and awaits answers.

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(Sources: Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration)

-Thailand News (TN)