Chiang Mai: Four temples in Chiang Mai city have sustained damage following an earthquake, as revealed by a survey conducted by the Office of Buddhism and the Chiang Mai Sangha. The earthquake, with its epicenter located in Myanmar, has caused cracks in the structures, the collapse of bases of Buddha statues aged over 700 years, and the tilting of golden umbrella spires.
According to Thai News Agency, Assistant Professor Dr. Phrakru Wititsasanathorn, Deputy District Chief of Chiang Mai and Assistant Abbot of Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan, together with Mr. Sutthiphatphong Somkham, Director of the Buddhism Promotion Group, inspected the ancient sites in the temples post-earthquake. At Wat Yang Kwang in Tambon Hai Ya, Amphoe Mueang, significant damage was observed, including cracks around the Phra That Chedi and a bent golden umbrella spire. The sunken base of the 700-year-old Buddha image, Phra Chao Sak Sits, has raised safety concerns for Phrakru Palat Thiranawat Yanasithivathi, the Abbot of Wat Yang Kwang, who has urged for intervention from relevant authorities to ensure safety during religious ceremonies performed in the area.
The survey further revealed that Wat Phuk Chang in Tambon Hai Ya, Amphoe Mueang, experienced cracks in its walls, extending from the ceiling to the floor in three different sections, some nearly 1 centimeter wide. Additionally, damage was noted on the cheeks and ears of the temple's principal Buddha image. At Wat Tha Luk in Tambon San Phisuea, Amphoe Mueang, the monk's huts, which are over 100 years old, showed cracks and chipped plaster on nearly every pillar. Wat San Sai Ton Kok in Tambon Fa Ham suffered damage as a plaster sculpture of a deity on the chedi collapsed.
The damages will be reported to the Department of Religious Affairs and other relevant agencies to seek assistance in restoration efforts.