Bangkok: Bangkok adjusts the Traffy Fondue system to respond to 5,500 concerns about building cracks, mobilizing 100 volunteer engineers to urgently go to the area. Mr. Sanont Wangsrangboon, Deputy Governor of Bangkok, revealed about receiving reports of cracks and damages to buildings from the public through Traffy Fondue that there were more than 2,100 cases reporting cracks or damages to buildings from earthquakes through the system. As awareness spread, the number of reports surged to over 5,000. The main issue is that condominium juristic persons or building owners must conduct annual inspections regardless.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, has mandated building inspections for structures higher than 8 floors and those in the 9 categories that require annual inspections. These buildings should be inspected promptly after the earthquake, easing the burden on volunteer engineers. The responsibility for these inspections falls on the juristic persons managing the buildings.
For citizens reporting building damage, guidelines have been set. Buildings of 8 floors or more are categorized into three cases: Case 1 involves non-structural issues where engineers will confirm safety and close the case. Case 2 involves ambiguous issues requiring further inspection. Case 3 pertains to structural damage making a building unlivable, prompting urgent engineer intervention. For buildings under 8 stories, minor impacts are expected; however, potential dangers will be assessed by volunteer engineers.
In response to the increased public reports, more volunteer engineers have joined the efforts, organized into two teams. The team with Civil Engineer certification handles complex cases, while the other team tackles simpler cases. A central team from the Engineering Institute of Thailand (EIT) has been established to coordinate information from field engineers. Of the over 5,500 cases reported, about 700 require on-site inspection. As of noon today, 28 cases have been inspected, with 7 completed.
Deputy Governor Sanont expressed gratitude for the public's compliments on Bangkok's management through Traffy Fondue. He acknowledged the cooperation of engineers from various sectors, emphasizing the country's abundance of talent. The volunteer engineers have quickly mobilized, working tirelessly to assist Bangkok's residents through the crisis.
Residents can report building cracks caused by earthquakes easily without downloading an application. They can simply add Line @traffyfondue or use the provided link to submit photos, coordinates, and details. The reporting process involves selecting the 'Report building cracks' menu, specifying information such as building type, height, crack size, contact information, and providing photos and location details for further investigation.