Two workers killed in Bangkok collapse…

Investigation launched after tower block tumbles.

Two demolition workers were killed yesterday when an eight-storey building under demolition on Sukhumvit Soi 87 in Bangkok collapsed.

Rescue workers, police and fire-fighters continued their search for two workers believed to be trapped under the debris.

It was initially reported that four workers were trapped in the building, the BMA Public Works Department’s Building Control Division head Noppadol Chaipanya said.

Backhoe driver Phichit Pasada told police that he and another nine workers were preparing to demolish the building. As he was refilling the backhoe and other workers were checking the building, he heard something like a sling snap before the building collapsed and workers ran for safety.

The contractor got permission to demolish the building on November 22. However, Phra Khanong district office ordered a temporary suspension of the demolition on December 2 after officials found hazardous problems at the site.

Students were evacuated yesterday from the nearby Wells International School as a precaution.

The authorities have launched a probe into the cause of the collapse, he added.

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