In a recent turn of events, medical staff at Bangkok’s Siriraj Hospital swiftly responded to a seismic scare, ensuring the safe evacuation of patients after a robust earthquake originating in Myanmar sent tremors rippling across Thailand, reaching as far as Bangkok, on March 28. Chanat Katanyu reported the scene vividly, capturing a tense moment where professionals stood bravely united.
Amid the backdrop of this tectonic commotion, Bangkok’s governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, is set to renew his call for a 9-million-baht investment to arm eight major high-rise hospitals in the city with state-of-the-art earthquake measurement devices. This initiative isn’t new but rather a renaissance of an earlier proposal which faced a snub from the Bangkok City Council in September 2023, possibly due to an underestimated need for urgency. However, one’s foresight can be prone to short-sightedness when Mother Nature decides to remind us of her might.
“Truth be told, back then, the urgency might not have been palpable,” Mr. Chadchart confessed, alluding to a time when the earth’s rumbling was a distant memory. “It’s quite understandable that the grave importance of this initiative might have been overshadowed by more immediate priorities. Yet, with the ground recently shaking us back into reality, perceptions are likely to have swayed toward a more vigilant outlook.”
This proposal aims to see hi-tech seismic monitoring gadgets find a home within the upper echelons of some of Bangkok’s tallest and most essential healthcare infrastructures. Take, for example, the Thani Nopparat Building gracing the skyline at City Hall in Din Daeng, towering 37 stories high. The list also includes other notable edifices like the 72nd Anniversary Building at Charoenkrung Pracharak Hospital, standing proudly with 24 stories, and the evocative Somdet Chao Phraya Taksin Maharat Building at Taksin Hospital, with its 17-story stature.
Chadchart emphasizes that the projected cost of nine million baht is a small price to pay for the monumental peace of mind and data insights these devices promise. “It’s not just a matter of cost; it’s an investment in security. These gadgets will harvest precious data critical for understanding seismic activity patterns and risks,” he asserted, highlighting the relativity of cost vis-a-vis the invaluable insights gained.
Yet, the governor’s ambition doesn’t stop at these eight hospitals; he harbors aspirations of broadening the horizon. “If feasible, I envisage a landscape where both governmental and private establishments are equipped, enabling a more robust and reliable flow of data, ultimately bolstering public trust.” Mr. Chadchart enthused over the broader vision where such technologies, which have thankfully become more pocket-friendly, lie scattered across the city, feeding into a collective reservoir of knowledge.
As the discussion continues to gain traction, there’s a sense of anticipation as to whether the funding will nestle into the fiscal agenda for 2026 or if alternative avenues, such as central government backing, might pave a more immediate path forward. Bangkok stands poised at the precipice of proactive disaster preparedness, all while its skyline whispers hope that these installations would lead to a more resilient urban landscape, ever ready to greet unforeseen quakes with unwavering steadiness.
It seems like a no-brainer to invest in seismic upgrades for hospitals. Lives could be at stake here.
I agree, Emily. But it’s not just about spending money; we need to find the most efficient solutions.
Certainly, finding efficient solutions is crucial, but action is needed before another quake hits.
Indeed, acting preemptively can save not just lives but also economic cost in the long run.
Why are we relying on these gadgets? Should we not focus more on building integrity?
Both are essential, Bob. Seismic devices provide early warning while better building codes ensure safety.
I see your point, Sam. It’s perhaps the combination that offers the best odds of safety.
Seismic monitoring is essential for data collection. It informs how we construct buildings to withstand tremors.
True, but can we be sure that this data actually leads to improved constructions?
Definitely, data analysis leads to improvements in design practices. It’s a proven method in engineering.
9 million baht seems like a reasonable cost for something that could save countless lives. Just do it already!
It does seem reasonable, but funding must be managed prudently, especially post-COVID.
One interesting thing is the financial implications of such projects on public budgets and their returns.
However, can we really measure the ROI on human life preservation?
ROI is not just financial; moral and ethical returns are substantial as well.
How long until these devices are installed? And are there plans to maintain them long-term?
Great question, Sophia! Long-term maintenance is something that’s often overlooked but critical.
With tech becoming cheaper, is there room for private investment in this sector?
I read this could make Bangkok like Tokyo if we do it right. Awesome!
Achieving Tokyo’s level of preparedness is challenging but not impossible.
Can these gadgets predict earthquakes, or do they just record them?
They primarily measure and record. Prediction is still largely in the experimental stage.
This should pave the way for more discussions on reinforcing other public infrastructures.
If we can invest smartly, more systems could receive much-needed upgrades.
Hospitals were quick to act this time, but communities need to become just as prepared.
Wouldn’t it be great if schools also had such devices?