Klong Thom fire under control but hot spots remain, Chadchart says

The Klong Thom fire has been brought under control, though hot spots persist, according to Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt. The administration anticipates extinguishing the remaining hot spots within one to two days. Forensic officers may enter the building as early as tomorrow, August 31. The fire, which broke out on August 28, resulted in injuries to 11 individuals and caused damage to the structure and systems of the Klong Thom Center.

No fatalities were reported, and the center has since temporarily suspended operations. Governor Chadchart inspected the site on August 30 and confirmed the fire was under control, although several hot spots remained beneath steel structures. Crews are employing equipment to cut through steel beams hindering access to the hot spots identified by drones equipped with infrared cameras.

Excavators and additional cutting gear are set to be deployed this afternoon. Air-quality tests across Bangkok have returned to normal levels, with no dangerous toxic gases detected in the affected area. However, people are advised to continue wearing masks as a precaution against dust near the site. About 200 affected residents and vendors have registered for assistance, with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) offering a one-stop service at Wat Phra Phiren.

Affected vendors could receive assistance of slightly more than 10,000 baht each. Nearby shopping centers have provided temporary space for vendors, while the BMA is seeking alternative premises at special rental rates. The site remains under seal, with shop owners restricted from retrieving belongings until their identities are verified and safety checks have been completed.

Forensic officers may access the building as soon as tomorrow, once it is deemed safe. Governor Chadchart noted that Klong Thom Center is an older building constructed prior to the Building Control Act. He added that its fire-hydrant system was recently inspected and found to be functioning normally. He also stated that helicopters were not utilized during the fire due to concerns that their powerful rotor downdraft could exacerbate the situation. The BMA is exploring the possibility of using firefighting drones for future operations.