Quake-induced panic and damage bring Bangkok to a halt

Traffic in Bangkok came to a standstill this afternoon after a strong earthquake in Myanmar shook the capital, causing damage to multiple buildings and forcing the closure of main roads and expressways.

Bangkok has been declared an emergency zone, prompting many people to leave their offices early and rush home.

Traffic radio stations, including Jor Sor 100 and Sor Wor Por 91, reported that the usual Friday congestion—already heavy due to payday—was made worse by the quake’s impact.

Motorists were unable to use expressways and other elevated roads, which were ordered closed for safety reasons. Authorities also advised drivers to avoid Rama II Road, which sustained significant damage.

At an intersection on Bang Pho Road, a crane collapsed, partially blocking traffic.

All of Bangkok’s mass transit systems, including the BTS and MRT, suspended services pending structural inspections.

Several buildings in the capital either collapsed or sustained damage. In Chatuchak district, a building under construction collapsed, killing at least three people.

The incident is under investigation, and authorities have closed Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road from Kilometer Marker 11 to JJ Mall.

For road commuters, the Din Daeng Tollway and Chalerm Maha Nakhon Expressway are out of service.

Regarding air travel, Aeronautical Radio of Thailand has temporarily suspended all aircraft takeoffs nationwide for air traffic safety, though landings are still permitted.

Authorities have urged the public to stay alert for aftershocks and to avoid unnecessary travel.