Thai Parliament Confirms No Significant Damage from Recent Earthquake
Minor structural cracks noted in Parliament House; safety measures updated following March 28 quake
Thailand's Parliament House reported no substantial damage following the earthquake that struck on March 28, affecting parts of Bangkok and neighboring Myanmar.
Following a thorough inspection by experts from the Engineering Institute of Thailand (EIT) and the Public Works and Town and Country Planning Department, it was confirmed that the building sustained only minor cracks that do not compromise its structural integrity.
The Upper House convened as scheduled on March 31, led by Second Deputy Senate Speaker Boonsong Noisophon, who initiated the session with a moment of silence for the victims of the earthquake.
This gesture acknowledged those who lost their lives in the tremors, which originated from Mandalay, Myanmar.
Senator Boonsong detailed the inspections carried out on the Parliament House, noting that both the EIT's deputy chairman Karoon Chandrangsu and other engineers found no issues with the stability of the building’s foundation, which extends deep underground between 64 and 65 meters.
The inspections revealed no significant fractures in the structure or the connecting bridge; however, they did identify minor cement cracks that require further monitoring to ensure they do not worsen over time.
In response to the earthquake, the Senate Speaker, Mongkol Surasajja, led a rehearsal to demonstrate the updated evacuation procedures.
New safety equipment, including helmets, safety vests, and whistles, has been installed in Parliament to enhance safety measures for members.
The drills emphasized the importance of preparedness for any future emergencies.
Senator Noppadol In-na, a civil engineering expert present during the tremors, highlighted the need for improved signage to guide individuals to emergency exits and assembly points within the building.
He noted the importance of continual awareness regarding evacuation procedures, particularly in the context of potential disasters.
In parallel, the Lower House announced plans to establish a committee tasked with evaluating the safety of the Parliament building.
This committee will include representatives from both secretariat offices, the Public Works and Town and Country Planning Department, and other relevant sectors, aiming to enhance the overall safety and preparedness of the parliamentary facilities.
Following a thorough inspection by experts from the Engineering Institute of Thailand (EIT) and the Public Works and Town and Country Planning Department, it was confirmed that the building sustained only minor cracks that do not compromise its structural integrity.
The Upper House convened as scheduled on March 31, led by Second Deputy Senate Speaker Boonsong Noisophon, who initiated the session with a moment of silence for the victims of the earthquake.
This gesture acknowledged those who lost their lives in the tremors, which originated from Mandalay, Myanmar.
Senator Boonsong detailed the inspections carried out on the Parliament House, noting that both the EIT's deputy chairman Karoon Chandrangsu and other engineers found no issues with the stability of the building’s foundation, which extends deep underground between 64 and 65 meters.
The inspections revealed no significant fractures in the structure or the connecting bridge; however, they did identify minor cement cracks that require further monitoring to ensure they do not worsen over time.
In response to the earthquake, the Senate Speaker, Mongkol Surasajja, led a rehearsal to demonstrate the updated evacuation procedures.
New safety equipment, including helmets, safety vests, and whistles, has been installed in Parliament to enhance safety measures for members.
The drills emphasized the importance of preparedness for any future emergencies.
Senator Noppadol In-na, a civil engineering expert present during the tremors, highlighted the need for improved signage to guide individuals to emergency exits and assembly points within the building.
He noted the importance of continual awareness regarding evacuation procedures, particularly in the context of potential disasters.
In parallel, the Lower House announced plans to establish a committee tasked with evaluating the safety of the Parliament building.
This committee will include representatives from both secretariat offices, the Public Works and Town and Country Planning Department, and other relevant sectors, aiming to enhance the overall safety and preparedness of the parliamentary facilities.
