Bangkok: A representative from the heavy machinery team involved in the demolition of the collapsed Office of the Auditor General building has called for clear directives to proceed with the debris removal. The request follows criticisms from a national disaster expert regarding the inefficiency of current rescue operations.
According to Thai News Agency, Professor Chatchai Taikla, a renowned national disaster expert, and Mr. Yi Thanakun Jit-Isara addressed the media to discuss the ongoing mission to locate missing persons at the disaster site. They reported that the rescue operation has not been effectively initiated, with only one deceased body recovered so far. Professor Chatchai criticized the lack of a unified command and emphasized the need for a practical and systematic approach, noting the Thai rescue team's potential, which is on par with international teams.
Observers at the site have noted that the presence of visitors has disrupted the continuous search efforts. The need for uninterrupted operations was stressed, as frequent halts to accommodate visitors have impeded the progress of the urgent search and rescue efforts.
Professor Chatchai, drawing on his experience as a trainer in firefighting and disaster response, highlighted the critical 100-hour mark since the incident occurred. He stated that the initial 72-hour window, during which the likelihood of finding survivors is highest, had already passed. He remarked that efforts should now focus on removing debris to uncover any potential survivors. However, with limited progress made, he lamented the idling of expensive equipment, which could otherwise expedite the clearance of the area within a week.
Ms. Nawinya, representing the heavy machinery team, reported that their equipment, including cranes, crushers, breaker trucks, cutting trucks, and large backhoes, remains unused due to a lack of directives. She expressed frustration over the inactivity and called for clear instructions to commence demolition work, emphasizing their willingness to contribute to the rescue efforts.