Bangkok: "Mongkol" led a team of engineers to inspect the structure of the Parliament building, confirming the building's safety and paving the way for the planned Senate meeting on March 31. The inspection also included preparations for a disaster evacuation drill to ensure the safe evacuation of up to 5,000 people if needed.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Mongkol Surassajja, President of the Senate, coordinated with senators and engineering experts to assess the Parliament building's safety following an earthquake. The inspection involved notable figures such as Mr. Noppadol Inna, a senator and former Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at Thammasat University, and Mr. Panithi Promsakha Na Sakon Nakhon, along with representatives from the Engineering Institute and the Department of Public Works. Mrs. Pannita Sathantraiphop, Secretary-General of the Senate, was also present during the inspection, which aimed to ensure the building's readiness ahead of the Senate meeting.
Mr. Mongkol emphasized the Senate's proactive approach to ensuring the safety of all parliamentarians and senators. He outlined the comprehensive inspection process, which involved checking the building's structural integrity, elevators, communication devices, alarms, and other safety equipment. The inspection team, assisted by engineers from the Department of Public Works, verified the absence of structural damage, noting that everything was in working order. Plans were made to address any deficiencies, such as emergency lighting and fire exits, and a rehearsal of evacuation procedures was scheduled for the following day.
In response to queries about evacuation procedures, Mr. Mongkol stated that the plan involves safely evacuating 4,000-5,000 people from the parliament building. While the current focus is on internal drills, there are plans to collaborate with MPs for joint exercises. Mr. Mongkol assured that the building is safe and that an effective evacuation plan is in place.
Mr. Noppadol shared that the engineering inspection, which included a review of the basement levels and structural elements like columns and beams, found no significant cracks or structural damage. While some minor cracks were observed, they were attributed to pre-existing conditions and posed no immediate threat. The inspection extended to critical areas such as the bridge connecting various buildings and the printing house, both deemed safe for continued use.
Mr. Panithi added that most of the observed damage was architectural rather than structural, suggesting it could be quickly repaired without posing danger. Specific areas like the underground motorcycle parking lot were cordoned off as a precaution against falling debris, but the structural integrity remained intact. He expressed confidence in the building's safety, underscoring that the fire alarm system is equipped to facilitate evacuations efficiently.