District authorities have ordered a contractor to halt the demolition of a commercial building in Bangkok after it partially collapsed and injured two people.
Part of the building between Soi 51/1 and Soi 51/2 on Ramkamhaeng Road in Bangkok came down on Monday afternoon. Two women, aged 54 and 23, were wounded by the debris.
Bang Kapi district authorities in charge of the area ordered the halt of the demolition until further notice. The injured people were also informed of their right to seek damages. Police are investigating before taking action.
Thai media reported the building had been expropriated and contractors started pulling it down in December. They barricaded the section of the pavement in front of the building, forcing pedestrians to walk on the street.
Eyewitnesses said a large backhoe was operating inside the building when the balcony on the second floor came down. It plunged through the awning of the first floor, sending debris everywhere.
