The recent 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar, which struck on March 28, 2025, has sent shockwaves—both literal and figurative—across neighboring Thailand, raising urgent concerns about the structural integrity of high-rise buildings in major cities like Bangkok and Pattaya. As tremors rattled the region, reports emerged of large cracks, partial collapses, and abandoned buildings, particularly in condominiums and hotels catering to foreign tourists.

Buildings at Risk: Ghost Towers and Safety Violations

While Thailand has earthquake-resistant building regulations in place, many older structures and privately owned rental properties were not designed to withstand seismic activity. Some buildings, already weakened by poor construction materials and substandard steel, have become ghost buildings, left vacant due to safety fears. However, some unscrupulous landlords continue to rent out these properties to unsuspecting tourists, ignoring the risks.

Potential for Catastrophic Collapse

Experts warn that if another earthquake or strong aftershock strikes, these damaged buildings could collapse entirely, posing a serious threat to foreign visitors. The Bangkok skyscraper collapse following the Myanmar quake has already sparked fears about the safety of high-rise structures in Thailand.

Travel Warnings and International Concerns

The Healing Quotient (HQtest) has now listed Thailand as a dangerous travel destination, citing high risks for tourists due to building instability. Meanwhile, international governments have updated their travel advisories, urging visitors to exercise caution and avoid high-rise accommodations in affected areas.

Government Response and Future Measures

Thai authorities have launched investigations into building safety violations and construction standards, aiming to prevent further disasters. However, public confidence remains shaken, with many residents and tourists questioning the safety of Thailand’s urban infrastructure.

As Thailand grapples with the aftermath of the Myanmar earthquake, the urgent need for stricter enforcement of building regulations and transparent safety assessments has never been clearer. The question remains: Will Thailand act swiftly enough to prevent another catastrophe?