Thailand investigates skyscraper collapse amid Myanmar earthquake death toll surpassing 1,700

The collapse of a Bangkok skyscraper during a recent earthquake has raised serious concerns, with at least 11 confirmed deaths and 76 people still missing. The Anti-Corruption Organisation of Thailand had previously flagged irregularities in the construction, which was being carried out by a joint venture of Italian Thai Development and a subsidiary of China Railway Group. The building, which was only 30% complete at the time of the disaster, was already facing scrutiny due to delays and potential safety violations. Thai authorities have announced an investigation into the causes of the collapse, with questions surrounding construction quality and adherence to safety standards. The Deputy Prime Minister has tasked a committee to report back within a week on the factors that led to the disaster. This incident is compounded by the recent earthquake in Myanmar, which has resulted in significant destruction and a rising death toll exceeding 1,700.