Death toll at Chatuchak collapse site rises to 21, 73 still missing

The death toll at the Chatuchak collapse site climbed to 21 today, as four more bodies were retrieved from the rubble on the 12th day of search operations following tremors that struck Bangkok on March 28.

The latest victims were found in Zone C after rescuers and workers used heavy machinery to clear the area.

Earlier a body was found in a 4-metre deep cavity in zone C of the collapsed building, while two more were found in zone B. It was not until 4.30am this morning that rescuers were able to recover two of the bodies.

A 1,000-tonne crane is due to arrive at the scene this morning, to raise the heavy concrete slabs from the huge pile of debris. This will facilitate the search for those who remain trapped.

Monsit Imjai, deputy chief of the Urban Search and Rescue K9 team, said that they have eight sniffer dogs to help in the search for trapped bodies.

He said the team has no plan to withdraw yet and will continue to do work with other K9 teams from the army and the police.

The number of bodies recovered is now 17 and 77 people are still listed as missing.