Bangkok: Governor Chadchart Sittipunt and Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul conducted an inspection of the crane collapse site near the Din Daeng Expressway. It is anticipated that the removal of all crane parts from the building will require approximately two days. Emphasizing public safety as a priority, Mr. Chadchart addressed the situation.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chadchart, alongside Mr. Anutin, Ms. Jiraporn Sindhuphrai, and other officials, visited the scene where crane debris had fallen onto the expressway. During their assessment, Mr. Chadchart noted that the contractor company is responsible for clearing the debris. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has established a committee of government agencies to oversee the operation, integrating efforts from the Expressway Authority of Thailand and the Engineering Institute of Thailand. The plan involves dismantling the crane into pieces and lowering them down, with a commitment to expedite the process.
When questioned about reopening the Din Daeng Expressway, Mr. Chadchart stated that an inspection of the crane parts was necessary before determining a timeline. He anticipated a two-day completion if all proceeded according to plan, but acknowledged potential delays. Ensuring public safety remained his primary concern, as unexpected incidents could necessitate extensive repairs.
Mr. Anutin clarified that the collapse occurred at a government building, implying no fault lay with the BMA, as government buildings are not subject to BMA permits. He stressed the need to investigate whether the construction adhered to project plans, especially since the building was new, unlike the undamaged older structures nearby. He urged for a fair assessment without undue pressure on the BMA.
Addressing the management challenges, Mr. Chadchart highlighted the instability of the crane parts, necessitating careful planning. With the crane being a temporary and fragile structure, potential threats such as earthquakes could exacerbate the situation.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister issued directives to the BMA, including managing a command center at Chatuchak, enhancing communication, inspecting tall buildings, providing legal compensation, inspecting collapsed structures, and seeking assistance from Israel for an X-ray machine to aid injured individuals. Multiple countries have offered support in the aftermath of the incident.