BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra rode the Bangkok MRT on March 29 to inspect the city’s public transportation system following the recent earthquake. She assured the public that the system remains safe and operational. During her visit, she inquired about any disruptions caused by the quake and was informed that no structural damage occurred, aside from minor issues like loose manhole covers, which have already been fixed. However, the Pink and Yellow Line monorails remain temporarily suspended for further safety checks, with operations expected to resume on March 30.
During the ride from Sanam Chai to Silom Station, Paetongtarn interacted with commuters, including foreign tourists, who expressed mild concern about the earthquake but were relieved to see normalcy return. The Prime Minister emphasized that the government would not compromise public safety, ensuring all systems undergo thorough inspections before reopening.
Regarding air travel, the Prime Minister confirmed that flights are operating normally with no delays or cancellations. The Airports of Thailand (AOT) CEO also reassured the public that all airline services remain unaffected.
Addressing concerns about financial compensation for damages, Paetongtarn stated that Bangkok authorities would assess the extent of losses and announce relief measures accordingly.
She also questioned why only one building, the State Audit Office, collapsed during the earthquake, aligning with public skepticism. She has ordered the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning to conduct a full investigation within a week. The probe will determine the root cause, including structural flaws and approval processes.
Following the transport inspection, the Prime Minister visited Silom to examine high-rise buildings, emphasizing the importance of construction standards and earthquake resistance. She expressed determination to uncover any irregularities, citing concerns over past budget allocations and project extensions. Despite the earthquake, she noted that most buildings remained intact, with only minor elevator malfunctions reported.
After completing her inspections, the Prime Minister returned to her official duties, reaffirming the government’s commitment to safety and accountability in infrastructure and urban planning.
