Sun Apr 27 23:46:13 UTC 2025: ## Bangkok Earthquake Aftermath: High-Rise Fears Linger a Month Later

**Bangkok, Thailand** – One month after a magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Myanmar and sent shockwaves through Bangkok, causing a 30-story building to collapse, anxieties about high-rise living persist among some residents of the world’s 12th tallest city. While life has largely returned to normal, the March 28th quake, which was felt strongly due to its shallow depth of 10km, left a lasting impact.

The collapse of the unfinished National Audit Office building resulted in dozens of deaths and left 73 people still missing under the rubble. This tragedy, coupled with the widespread shaking and damage experienced across the city, has fueled concerns about the safety of high-rise structures. Residents recounted terrifying experiences, describing swaying buildings, falling debris, and a general feeling of panic. Many were left traumatized, with some refusing to return to their high-rise apartments.

While investigations are underway to determine the cause of the building collapse and whether building codes were followed, the earthquake highlighted vulnerabilities in Bangkok’s infrastructure. The unstable soil beneath the city amplified the quake’s effects, and concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of Thailand’s emergency alert system, which struggled to disseminate warnings quickly enough. A survey revealed that 68% of respondents were concerned about building safety, and 60% expressed anxieties about the early warning system.

The quake’s impact extends beyond personal safety; analysts predict a negative effect on the property market, with potential buyers hesitant to purchase high-rise condos. This could particularly benefit the low-rise housing market.

Although the Thai government has pledged to improve the alert system and launched investigations into building safety, the lingering fear and uncertainty underscore the need for a comprehensive review of building regulations and emergency preparedness in Bangkok. While the city has largely resumed its bustling activity, the memory of the earthquake continues to shape the lives and perspectives of its residents.

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