Thailand Investigates 30-Story Building Collapse After Myanmar Quake

In the wake of a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar, the collapse of a newly constructed 30-story skyscraper in Bangkok has raised significant concerns about building safety standards in Thailand. The building, intended to be the headquarters for the Office of the Auditor General, was the only structure to fail amidst widespread destruction, prompting authorities to launch a comprehensive investigation into its design and construction. Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has formed a special committee, including experienced engineers, to determine the causes of the collapse, which has left dozens missing and several fatalities confirmed. Questions have emerged regarding the quality of materials used, with reports suggesting that the steel bars may have been inadequate. Meanwhile, rescue operations continue as efforts are made to locate any survivors trapped in the rubble. The incident has also led to scrutiny of the Thai-Chinese joint venture responsible for the construction, with four Chinese workers questioned for allegedly removing documents from the site.