Tragedy Strikes as Bangkok Skyscraper Collapses
In a devastating incident in Bangkok, a 30-storey skyscraper under construction has collapsed, trapping dozens of workers beneath the rubble. Rescue operations are underway as hundreds of workers search for survivors amidst the debris. The collapse follows a significant earthquake that struck central Myanmar, sending shockwaves felt across the border in Thailand.
Rescue Efforts Intensify Amidst Despair
As night falls over the scene, rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate and free an estimated 81 workers trapped in the wreckage of the collapsed skyscraper. The building, which was being constructed for the national audit office, had been in development for three years at a cost exceeding two billion Thai baht (approximately £45 million). The sight of twisted metal and concrete piles is a grim reminder of the disaster that unfolded.
Rescue workers, equipped with heavy machinery and floodlights, are racing against time. Thai Defence Minister Phumtham Wechachai confirmed that three fatalities have been reported, with the grim reality of the situation becoming increasingly apparent. As the rescue operation continues, the hope of finding survivors diminishes, but teams remain committed to their mission.
Earthquake Triggers Catastrophic Collapse
The collapse was precipitated by a shallow magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck central Myanmar, followed by a magnitude 6.4 aftershock. The tremors were felt in Bangkok, leading to panic and confusion among residents who are unaccustomed to such natural disasters. Eyewitness accounts describe the chaos as the ground shook and buildings trembled, culminating in the catastrophic failure of the construction site.
Adisorn Kamphasorn, an 18-year-old construction worker, recounted his harrowing experience. He was on the sixth floor when he felt the tremors and witnessed the crane shaking violently. “I knew it was about to be bad. I ran. It took one minute for it to collapse,” he said, describing the chaos that ensued. Many workers, a mix of Thai and Burmese, are now left anxiously awaiting news of their colleagues who remain unaccounted for.
Survivors Share Their Stories
Survivors of the collapse are grappling with the trauma of the event. Many were covered in dust and shock as they emerged from the debris. One worker, Nukul Khemutha, was on the fifth floor when the building began to fail. He described the terrifying moment when he saw the floors sinking and heard his colleagues screaming to run. “We were all just screaming ‘run’ and telling each other to hold hands and run together,” he recalled.
Despite their narrow escape, the survivors have not yet received medical assistance, as the focus remains on rescuing those still trapped. The atmosphere is heavy with grief and uncertainty as rescue workers continue their efforts into the night, drilling through the rubble in hopes of finding more survivors.
Community Response and Ongoing Challenges
The local community has gathered near the site, with many expressing their shock and concern. Fire engines, ambulances, and rescue vehicles line the road next to the collapsed building, creating a scene of urgency and desperation. As heavy machinery arrives to aid in the rescue, the challenges of navigating the debris become evident.
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