On March 29, 2025, at 10:50 AM, Thai Prime Minister Pei Tongtan held a press conference at the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation in Thailand, reporting the latest developments and government relief measures regarding the earthquake.
Pei Tongtan stated that since the earthquake occurred on March 28, the government has quickly activated emergency response mechanisms and continued to monitor the development of the disaster. The epicenter of the earthquake was in Myanmar, affecting multiple areas in Thailand, with noticeable tremors in Bangkok. Preliminary investigations show that the overall structure of buildings in Bangkok was not severely damaged, except for a high-rise under construction in the Chatuchak area that collapsed. The Urban Planning Department has intervened in the investigation and has been asked to submit a detailed report within a week to assess and improve construction safety measures.
She reported that as of now, about 50 aftershocks have been recorded in the affected area, with tremors gradually weakening. According to the latest monitoring data from midnight on March 28, the magnitude has dropped to 1.2, having a minor impact on daily life. The government has coordinated with relevant departments to ensure the safety of the affected people and to take necessary measures to prevent secondary disasters. Although earthquakes occur infrequently in Thailand, the government still attaches great importance to them, quickly mobilizing all parties to ensure that rescue operations proceed in an orderly manner.
Currently, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has been entrusted by the government to handle post-disaster work, coordinated by the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command Center, with the Minister of Interior, Anutin, in charge of overall command.
Prime Minister Pei Tongtan expressed her gratitude to all rescue personnel and has personally visited the collapse site to inspect the situation. The government is assessing rescue needs with the Mayor of Bangkok, focusing on strengthening construction safety management and the disposal of heavy equipment to prevent secondary disasters. She also reminded the public that some hazardous areas have not been completely cleared, and non-professionals should not enter these areas on their own.
Pei Tongtan emphasized that the impact of the earthquake is now largely controllable, and building managers can arrange for personnel to return to buildings based on specific situations. After ensuring safety, workplaces can resume normal operations on March 31.
Regarding residential buildings, apart from some high-rises that still require further safety assessments, residents can gradually return to their homes. Additionally, the Bangkok Metropolitan Government has opened five parks, providing 24-hour temporary accommodations and arranging police forces to maintain order. The government plans to announce specific relief measures soon to ensure that affected people can receive assistance in a timely manner.
