On the vibrant stage of the Bangkok Post Knowledge Forum 2025, a formidable gathering of experts kicked off a pivotal conversation at Chulalongkorn University. Under the insightful theme “After the Quake: From Lessons to Prevention — What We Must Know When the World Shifts,” these luminaries dove into the seismic intricacies that Bangkok faces, as well as strategies for fortifying the city against future tremors.
Bringing weight to the dialogue were pioneering voices from diverse disciplines:
- Pennung Warnitchai, steering the Structural Engineering Program at AIT
- Amorn Pimanmas, the spirited President of the Thailand Structural Engineers Association (TSEA)
- Alongkorn Parivudhiphongs, Deputy Dean of Research and International Affairs at Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Communication Arts
- Poomipak Julmanichoti, the strategic mind as Chief Strategy Officer at Sansiri Plc.
With an ensemble like this, the stage was set for an engaging exploration into Bangkok’s seismic vulnerabilities, and of course, the proactive measures needed ahead of the next quake.
Bangkok felt the quake — but why?
On March 28, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, setting nature’s alarm bells ringing as the reverberations traveled all the way to Bangkok. Though distanced by geography, the quake’s impact was unmistakably felt due to the long-period ground motion that rippled its way into the capital, inducing a resonant sway among tall buildings.
Bangkok’s skyline, particularly its high-rises crafted from softer soil, vibrated to the quake’s tune. This phenomenon, where long-period waves play ‘tag’ with buildings’ natural swaying frequencies, led to enhanced shaking sensations.
Soft soil = stronger shaking
The city’s foundation is laid upon a basin of soft soil — a setting rather conducive to amplifying seismic waves up to fourfold. This scenario primarily affects the garment of skyscrapers adorning the cityscape, as their penchant for swaying aligns harmoniously with those traveling waves.
How buildings respond
Details of tall buildings matter, engineered to withstand the tango with tremors. Thanks to modern engineering marvels like:
- Flexible joints
- Reinforced concrete cores
- Dampers and energy absorption systems, such as fluid viscous dampers
The controlled swaying isn’t a flaw but a badge of safety triumph.
Bangkok’s building codes and seismic zones
Seismic design codes stood their ground from their inception in 2007, evolving further in 2021. Bangkok’s grid divides into ten seismic vulnerability zones, holding new high-rises to exacting standards against inevitable seismic forces. Older edifices are under scrutiny, though not all are runners in the retrofit race.
Inspection results: mostly safe, with exceptions
Post-quake scrutiny saw nearly 500 buildings under the lens, pegged as mostly safe. Yet, the concerning collapse of an under-construction building in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district flagged questions about design and oversight lapses.
The risk is real — but manageable
While not perched upon active faults, Bangkok remains on alert for tremors spilling from quakes elsewhere — especially in regions near faults and provinces with soft soil akin to Bangkok’s nurturing grounds. It’s a real risk to reckon, but one within the realms of management.
What developers and residents should know
Height isn’t the solitary dictator of safety — the key lies in robust engineering. Well-crafted high-rises keep their heads high, even through distant seismic whispers. As for low-rise buildings, the mantra of solid structural standards is equally beatific.
Recommendations for stronger resilience
- Enhance public understanding of building sway dynamics.
- Enforce rigorous oversight on construction sites, notably for still-unfinished projects.
- Update seismic codes continually, leveraging technology and evolving data.
- Advocate damping systems integration in crucial infrastructures and towering pinnacles.
Don’t wait for the next quake
Earthquakes may be rare guests in Bangkok, yet their possibility cannot be discounted. The recent tremor was not simply a fleeting event but a sonorous reminder for sustained vigilance on seismic safety. Experts resound the call to action, urging that attention remains steadfast — irrespective of whether the ground trembles.
This is terrifying. I had no idea Bangkok was so vulnerable to earthquakes! We need better oversight on building construction!
You’re right. While oversight has improved, there’s still much to be done. Retrofitting older buildings is a huge concern.
Absolutely. I’ve seen some older apartments that don’t look like they’d hold up well during a quake.
Government needs to enforce strict building codes if they’re truly serious about our safety.
Why waste so much money on retrofitting when quakes are so rare? Spend it on more immediate issues like flooding.
The danger of infrequent but catastrophic events should not be underestimated. Preparedness is essential.
But can’t we prioritize? I just think resources are better allocated elsewhere.
It’s not just about prioritization; it’s about being ready for multiple threats. We must balance our safety measures.
I’ve always been fascinated by how structures can withstand such forces. It’s like an engineering dance with nature!
You can educate people all you want, but when the earthquake hits, it’s chaos. How do they expect to maintain calm in the panic?
Education does help. If people understand what’s happening, they’ll have better instinctive reactions. Panic is often born from ignorance.
Simulations and drills could make a significant difference in catastrophe readiness.
I’m skeptical about these so-called ‘experts’. If they knew so much, why are we just now addressing this problem?
Implementing better codes is a no-brainer. High-rises sway for a reason, but that doesn’t mean our buildings should be vulnerable.
The fact that most buildings were deemed safe is reassuring. But, what about those that weren’t? Where is the action plan?
I’m sure the authorities have plans to get them up to code, but accountability and transparency are crucial.
Yes, where can we see reports or updates? It’s important to know what’s actually being done.
Interesting how the article stresses engineering while ignoring environmental impacts. Retrofitting isn’t always greener.
Seismic zones in Bangkok? This sounds more like stirring unnecessary fear than scientific fact.
Remembering the past quake outside Myanmar always sends chills down my spine. That was intense!
I felt it too. Thank goodness for modern construction or things could’ve been catastrophic.
Are buildings here really engineered to handle bigger quakes? I doubt the older ones are.
Many older buildings lack sufficient engineering reinforcements. Retrofitting them is more than a good investment; it’s a lifesaver.
Exactly. Would like to see some action!
As someone who works in construction, it’s frustrating to see corners being cut. Safer buildings mean higher standards and costs.
Digital twins and AI could help predict structural issues before they happen.
Feels like these discussions come and go with each tremor. Urgency shouldn’t fade once the ground is still.