Thailand to probe Chinese steel firm after Bangkok building collapse during Myanmar quake
Death toll from powerful earthquakes in Myanmar at 3,649, with 5,018 injured, 145 missing
ISTANBUL
Thai authorities are launching an investigation into a Chinese steel manufacturer after a skyscraper under construction in Bangkok collapsed during the powerful earthquakes that struck Myanmar on March 28, local media reported Thursday.
The Industrial Works Department has requested a formal probe into Xin Ker Yuan, the steel company reportedly supplying rebar for the State Audit Office building in Bangkok, which collapsed during the quake, according to the Thai Public Broadcasting Service. The company allegedly refused to disclose distribution details, prompting suspicions over the structural integrity of materials used.
The collapse claimed at least 23 lives, and 71 people remain unaccounted for in Thailand.
Meanwhile, in Myanmar, the death toll stood at 3,649, with more than 5,000 injured and 145 still missing, according to Xinhua News. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms have hampered ongoing aid and shelter operations.
Authorities in Myanmar have recorded 112 aftershocks ranging between 2.8 and 7.5 magnitude since the initial quake.
On a related note, the Myanmar-Muslim Business Entrepreneurs’ Association has delivered substantial aid to the town of Pyinmana, located in Naypyidaw State, Global New Light of Myanmar reported.
The quake also unearthed a cultural heritage site from the Inwa period (1365–1842). Authorities have said the site will be excavated and preserved.
Separately, UN Special Envoy for Myanmar Julie Bishop visited the earthquake-stricken areas to discuss urgent humanitarian assistance, according to state broadcaster MRTV.
