Ex-Democrat Suchatvee unveils new party with policy focus on education

Suchatvee Suwansawat disclosed the policy of a new party, Thaikaomai, on Friday to use education as a key driver to woo voters when it contests a new general election next year.

“Education is the core of everything. Education is the game changer for Thailand,” he told an event to kick off the party platform.

The party was formed last month after he resigned from the Democrat Party in July. It was officially introduced to the public on Friday.

Thaikaomai unveiled what he termed the four-arrow policy to improve education, and use new technology to help small- and medium-enterprises and startups to steer the economy. The other two arrows targeted plans to improve the quality of life and measures to stamp out corruption.

Mr Suchatvee attacked a populist policy used to attract voters for failing to resolve all problems as it only delayed the country from reaching “the stage of a coma”. “Education is the strongest medicine (to cure the country),” he added.

Education would turn around Thailand from a labour-exporting country to be a nation equipped with innovation and creativity to compete in the world and attract investors to the kingdom, he added.

Mr Suchatvee was the president of King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang before entering politics.

Key leaders of the new party include Khunying Kalaya Sophonpanich, a former Democrat deputy leader, who is the Thaikaomai chairwoman. Varavij Kambhu Na Ayudhaya is one of the deputies and Kanate Wangpaichitr leads the economic team.

Mr Suchatvee said Thaikaomai will consider invitations to join a government after the new nationwide poll if the party is given an opportunity to take responsibility for education.

Thundery dawn storm causes flooding, damage across Greater Bangkok

A predawn storm on Friday brought heavy rain and strong winds to Greater Bangkok, toppling trees, damaging vehicles and flooding key roads.

Traffic radio broadcasters said strong winds and heavy rain toppled trees in Bang Kapi, Bang Sue, Huai Khwang and Din Daeng districts of Bangkok, as well as parts of Nonthaburi. Several vehicles were damaged, according to Traffic Police and Jor Sor 100 radio.

Flooding was also reported on Rama 9 and Bang Na-Trat roads.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration said Chatuchak district appeared hardest hit but a full damage assessment was still pending.

The Meteorological Department reported heavy rain at Suvarnabhumi airport in the 24 hours to 7am Friday. City Hall later recorded light rain at 8.45am in districts west of the Chao Phraya River, including Phasi Charoen, Chom Thong and Thon Buri.

The department warned more rain was moving in from Saraburi and Prachin Buri and was expected to reach Nong Chok before noon. Widespread showers are forecast across Greater Bangkok through the weekend.

Your horoscope for Oct 3-9

Your spot-on horoscope for work, money and relationship from Guru by the Bangkok Post’s famously accurate fortune teller. Let’s see how you will fare this week and beyond.

Aries

Mar 21 – Apr 19

Working solo is where you shine the brightest and deliver your best results. Working with others will wear you down emotionally. Be prepared for meetings that could have been emails and mixed signals. Use the chaos as fuel and you’ll discover unexpected growth opportunities.

A friend or cousin may point you to a low-key gig or hidden side income opportunity. You may stumble on forgotten cash or receive an unexpected windfall. If you’re juggling multiple debts, you’ll knock at least one out. Be careful with lending or investing, as someone may try to take advantage of you. Always double-check the fine print.

You and your partner share more peaceful moments together and quickly find happy mediums when disagreements pop up. You two might kickstart a healthier lifestyle together and keep each other motivated. Sexy time becomes more careful and meaningful.

A new hangout spot or a dating app swipe might light up chemistry that hits fast and hard. Enjoy the moment but stay realistic. The magic might fade once you’re home or when the night ends. At least you’ll walk away with a little story.

Taurus

Apr 20 – May 20

The project you’ve been pouring your energy into will soon complete. You’re getting noticed, maybe even rewarded. Both your main job and side gig will demand your full focus and what you gain in return will be worthwhile. Your network’s growing and more opportunities are coming. A job interview coming up? Expect a quick yes or no.

A windfall awaits you. A friend will drop a solid financial trick or smart investment tip. Income opportunities will keep you busier than planned, but in a way that makes you happy. Don’t forget to spend a little for pure enjoyment. Lost valuables will find their way back to you.

Next week brings smoother conversations, deeper connection and real quality time with your partner. Things are settling into a routine that could lead to the next level or bigger commitments. A new shared goal may emerge and having family in your corner makes it all feel more achievable.

Expect romantic spark with someone from work or a work-related social event but you two decide to get to know each other in secret to avoid gossips. Also, you may instantly click with a new face through social media or a friend’s introduction. Your heart’s about to get busy. Don’t let the excitement blind you to red flags.

Gemini

May 21 – Jun 20

Better communication and team support help you breeze through tasks. Your plans turn into progress with less pushback and more forward moves. Expect to land a key role in a future-focused project or major transformation initiative. It’s all about innovation, and you’ll adapt quickly with more say and influence than before. Job hunting? Keep an eye out for international opportunities.

You’ll handle your earnings and outgoings more smoothly. A friendly auntie or big sis in your circle might hook you up with a money-making opportunity, unlock an extra income stream or help you seal a sweet deal. Be careful with lending and investing – not everyone’s playing fair or has good intent.

Romance is ramping up with more playful, passionate and perfectly-timed moments between you two. Shared dreams are set to spark some wins worth celebrating. Family time is also in the cards. Unmarried couples may bring up wedding or engagenment before their parents.

If you’ve been chatting with several matches, one will sweep you off your feet and this could go IG official. Not seeing anyone? Someone off your radar might steal your heart faster than your usual type ever could.

Cancer

Jun 21 – Jul 22

Some colleagues might dismiss your ideas, but tension turns into clarity. It’ll show you exactly who’s in your corner. Manage your energy wisely as sudden urgent tasks may catch you off guard. Cyber threats or tech glitches could hit, so keep your key data safe.

Your network of friends and associates brings opportunities to earn extra cash through behind-the-scenes or less formal work. The repairs for your car, phone or daily gadget might be bigger than expected. Keep your spending minimum and stash a little cash more for safety. Stay sharp against pickpockets and travel scams while travelling abroad (even if it’s Japan).

Tension with your partner? It’s finally fading away. But don’t get too comfy – family drama or fresh trouble might follow. Still, you two will handle it together with calm confidence. This might just bring your hearts closer and make your minds wiser. Someone nosy might watch your love life for possible gossips ’cause they’re envious.

That special someone you’ve been seeing might be ready to go public with you. A married-with-kids someone from your work or social circle might sneak into your DMs with big flirty energy. If you can’t see yourself with them, don’t waste their time.

Leo

Jul 23 – Aug 22

There may be more meetings than usual but you’ll be given more decision-making power. A coveted project or unexpected opportunity lands in your lap. A few colleagues might stir up drama out of insecurity. You’re turning pressure and deadlines into fuels to push forward. If you run your own business, a big-name collab is on the cards.

Debt negotiations will work out in your favour. You might stumble on extra cash or a low-key income stream. An insurance payout, refund or overdue payment will soon arrive. Beware of fortune that comes with hidden cost. However, it will yield benefits and returns to you in the long run.

You’re each other’s anchor, muse and sage. Expect fun hangouts, romantic magic and pure couple glow. Sweet surprises may find you two as fortune smiles. Your shared vision starts turning into wins worth celebrating. You’re both stepping into deeper commitment territory, feeling completely sure about your journey together. Oh, we’re so jelly!

You may be tempted to ghost someone who doesn’t seems to be a good fit to you after getting to know them. Let them down gently. Your friends will play matchmaker and social scenes will spark fresh flirty vibes both IRL and online. You enjoy the attention and the flirtation without getting serious with anyone right now.

Virgo

Aug 23 – Sept 22

Bigwigs and clients are raising the bar and your plate’s about to get real full. Your boss might breathe down your neck more than usual. You might have to search for past assignments, fine-tune them and give them another polish. They seemed flawless to you at the time but time away from them help you realise their rooms for improvement. Sudden travel or surprise meetings could pop up.

More money comes in but more money also goes out. Beware of early signs of missing your savings goal. Joy trumps regret for now. However, don’t lose sight of your financial freedom. If recent past years have taught you anything, the lesson is that life is full of uncertainties.

Faithful couples may have a few playful disagreements and friendly competitions. If you’ve been two-timing, you may get exposed and shamed for it. Your official love and side love pressures you to choose and you may end up with none if you’re hesitant.

You may unexpectedly click with someone who’s nothing like your usual type. The chemistry is real, but so are the fears and doubts creeping into your mind. Old wounds and your differences might make you second-guess. It’s okay to take your time and feel things out.

Libra

Sept 23 – Oct 22

If you’re stuck on something, things finaly fall into place. Your energy, creativity and team synergy are at their peaks. You’ll breeze through deadlines while surprise setbacks will fuel your growth. Your professional circle is about to expand in ways that unlock hidden opportunities you never saw coming.

You’ll spend more on socialising, but you’ll also gain connections and intel that could unlock income boosts or supercharge your portfolio. Travel might bring a small windfall. You can afford little luxuries while staying on track with your savings goal.

Love feels lighter, with real talks replacing routine replies. You’ll actually hear each other, bringing you two closer. Shared goals and everyday challenges start turning into wins. Cross-cultural couples discuss their plan to wed or which country to settle down.

Fighting for someone’s heart? You’ll charm your way to victory. If you’re seeing no one, a fascinating foreigner or someone from a different culture might steal your heart. Despite some differences, shared passions and similar life goals will spark a deep, instant connection.

Scorpio

Oct 23 – Nov 21

You pick up new tech and tools fast while your creativity is at the maximum. What once felt tricky now feels easy. With the blend of knowledge, people skills and data-driven intuition, you’re becoming the office’s go-to guru and peacemaker. You’ll crush your to-do list and land a secret mission from bigwigs.

Your negotiation skills will deliver rewarding results. An unexpected inheritance or family heirloom could come your way. Valuable insider info might boost your investment game or help you spend smarter. Juggling multiple debts? One’s about to be history.

Heart-to-heart talks bring you two closer. You and your partner are more in sync. You two laugh more while building deeper trust. A shared dream or goal brings a spark of excitement between you two.

A family member or a close family friend might play matchmaker, nudging you toward someone with similar vibes and social standing. A fresh face or a blast from the past might slip into your DMs for a casual hook-up.

Sagittarius

Nov 22 – Dec 21

Curveballs and shake-ups will push you out of your comfort zone. You’ll meet unfamiliar faces, test new methods and work with tools you’ve never used before. Pressure might hit hard at first, but it’ll gradually give way to hope and excitement. Entrepreneurs, new markets await across borders or city lines.

Your pay/rate negotiations are likely to succeed, so trust your value and own your earning power. If you’re selling your property or brokering deals, expect signed and sealed papers. You’ll add more to your savings and still afford smalls splurges that make you smile.

Someone, through social media or your friend group, could sweep you off your feet in a heartbeat. Things might get steamy and spicy behind the scenes, but your heart’s still with your main squeeze. Your bond’s unshakable and you manage to keep them in the dark for now.

You radiate rizz. Expect several admirers, taken and available. Some just want to bed you and nothing more. Set boundaries that protect both your peace and your heart. Remember that with great charm comes great responsibility.

Capricorn

Dec 22 – Jan 19

Brace yourself for extra tension at meetings and more office drama. Soften your words to avoid burning bridges. On the bright side, your fierce determination and energy will power you through tough tasks and help you slay every deadline. You’ll do well in any upcoming test or competition.

Expect delayed or only partial payments. You may also get hit with major spending urges for entertainment and luxuries. A promising financial opportunity or unexpected cash boost may come into you late next week.

Brace yourself for a relationship rollercoaster. A hidden secret or money issue could come to light. Pain from the past might resurface too. Give each other more patience and kindness. Take a deep breath and ride out this turbulence together.

Fresh romance is heading your way. Some people aren’t looking for lasting love. Watch out for scammers and fling-seekers. If things are heating up with someone, you may be blindsided as they’re about to ghost you for someone else.

Aquarius

Jan 20 – Feb 18

Something feels off at your workplace. Expect tense talks and tangled communication. A higher-up might call you out for not delivering your best. Next week is a prime time to face and fix lingering issues bubbling beneath the surface. Fresh opportunities await if you’re bold enough to shake up your routine.

Your income stream may feel shaky. Expect surprises and shortfalls instead of steady streams. Ditch the dice and skip impulse buys on fun stuff. Don’t play guarantor for anyone’s debts. Time to tighten up or reboot your money plan.

Your relationship’s running on autopilot, stuck in repeat mode. You’re hungry for spark and fresh excitement. You might drop tiny white lies just to spice things up. Someone unaware that you’re taken might casually flirt with you.

You meet potential admirers IRL and online but none seems to live up to your standard. You think you deserve someone who deserve you and aren’t going to settle for less anytime soon. However, one of your admirers may call you snobbish.

Pisces

Feb 19 – Mar 20

You’re firing on all cylinders. Your energy, intuition and creativity will unite to take on projects, surprise deadlines and backlogs head-on. You can read the room in seconds, smoothly navigating conflicts and managing expectations with effortless finesse. Your standout results could land you a moment worth celebrating.

Fresh connections could reveal a secret source of income. You might be busier making money but it’s the good kind of busy. Make hay while the sun shines. You’re in your best earning years so don’t slow down just yet. Seeing those digits climb will definitely put a smile on your face.

Couples know when to spend time together and when to spend time on their own. Personal space and time are necessary for any healthy relationships. Quick make-ups will follow any mix-ups. Unmarried couples bring up their wedding or engagement plan to see their parents’s approval.

You’re laser-focused on building wealth and becoming your best self. As you glow up, someone older might start eyeing you with more than friendly interest. Your go-getting vibe is very appealing to them. An old flame or someone from your dating past might slide into your DMs for a casual hookup but it isn’t necessarily a good news.

’Big Joke’ files defamation suit against police chief

Former deputy national police chief Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn, also known as “Big Joke”, has filed a criminal defamation lawsuit against national police chief Pol Gen Kittharath Punpetch over allegations of links to a Chulalongkorn University law exam scandal.

The lawsuit, submitted on Wednesday at the Songkhla Administrative Court, cites the publication of misleading information implying Pol Gen Surachate’s involvement in the theft of exam papers, which he claims has harmed his reputation and honour.

The controversy dates back to March this year, when cyber police arrested figures connected to the Betflik online gambling network, ultimately uncovering communications among officers about removing exam papers from Chulalongkorn’s evening law programme.

Kanittha Lertbanjerdwong, also known as Dr Nid, was identified as a key intermediary who claimed to act as Pol Gen Surachate’s personal secretary. According to the investigation team, evidence indicates she delivered stolen exam papers to Pol Gen Surachate’s legal team for completion before returning them to examination authorities. Pol Gen Surachate maintains he never personally handled the papers.

Investigators from the Technology Crime Suppression Division 1 subsequently gathered sufficient evidence to issue warrants for three suspects, including Ms Kanittha, who was arrested in April. The police also revealed that a mobile phone of Pol Lt Col Karit Pariyaket, a close aide of Pol Gen Surachate, contained Line chats detailing the division of roles in the exam fraud. Some messages mentioned Pol Gen Surachate, while three other officers were involved in preparing and returning exams. Financial transactions tied to Pol Lt Col Karit and others were also identified.

Pol Gen Surachate stated that he has never been involved in any way and has never been formally charged in the case, yet his name has continued to be repeatedly implicated.

“I have filed criminal defamation charges against the national police chief because false information has been published linking me to the exam scandal,” he said. “Although my name was not mentioned directly, the reports clearly implied my involvement, damaging my reputation and honour. I must use the law to protect myself.”

A police disciplinary committee fired Pol Gen Surachate in March over his alleged involvement in an online gambling network.

Passenger charge raised at six Thai airports

The Department of Airports has announced an increase in the passenger service charge – commonly known as ‘airport tax’ – for outbound passengers at six regional airports in Thailand.

Both domestic and international travellers will now pay an additional 25 baht per person.

The airports are Krabi, Surat Thani, Ubon Ratchathani, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Phitsanulok.

The fee for international passengers has risen from 400 baht to 425 baht per person, while domestic passengers will now pay 75 baht per person, up from 50 baht. The fee is included in the ticket price.

Local media reported that passengers travelling between domestic airports have already seen the airport tax listed at 75 baht per person under the ‘fees and taxes’ section, in line with the department’s announcement, which took effect on Wednesday.

The increase applies only to airports that have introduced three new passenger processing technologies: automated boarding pass checks, self-service check-in kiosks, and self-service baggage drop systems.

National Security Council backs border fences

The National Security Council (NSC) has approved the construction of fences along the Thai-Cambodian border, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced.

Speaking after an NSC meeting, Mr Anutin said on Thursday that the details — such as location, design, and timing — will be determined by the Thai military based on terrain conditions and local needs.

Mr Anutin also addressed the issue of Cambodian encroachment in the areas of Ban Nong Chan and Ban Nong Ya Kaeo in Sa Kaeo, saying that the matter must be handled in accordance with the law while also considering humanitarian principles and the broader implications of any legal actions.

The question of which legal framework to apply — martial law, forestry law, or immigration law — will be considered by the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters in consultation with the Sa Kaeo governor and relevant agencies, including the Interior Ministry, the prime minister said.

When asked about the negotiations with Cambodia regarding the withdrawal of Cambodian forces from disputed territory, the prime minister confirmed that discussions are being held within the framework of the General Border Committee (GBC), before adding that the latest meeting was attended by the Minister of Defence.

He noted that Thailand has set certain conditions for Cambodia. If those conditions are not met, Thailand will not respond to Cambodian requests — for example, to reopen border checkpoints.

“I don’t want to use the word ‘pressure’, because there’s already a great deal of pressure on both sides. But we will take steps to demonstrate clearly that Thailand is ready. If this is the way they wish to proceed, then Thailand is prepared as well,” Mr Anutin said.

“And if Cambodia’s leaders genuinely want to protect the well-being of their own people, they must accept our conditions.”

Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow added that, under the GBC framework, three key points have been agreed upon: Cambodia must clear unexploded ordnance from the area, heavy weapons must be withdrawn, and cross-border crime must be jointly suppressed.

He said detailed discussions are still underway. Notably, Norway has already offered assistance with ordnance clearance, and it is believed that other countries will also be willing to help.

The meeting, the first under Mr Anutin’s government, also endorsed a set of continuing measures to address Thai-Cambodian tensions, building on decisions made at the previous NSC meeting.

These include military and border security strategies, trade controls, and proactive diplomatic engagement at the international level.

The government dismissed a recent report in The New York Times, which claimed China had delivered rockets and artillery shells to Cambodia just weeks before the outbreak of clashes between Thailand and Cambodia.

Defence Minister Gen Nattaphon Narkpanich said the report cited old news, stressing the weapons were delivered prior to the Thai-Cambodian conflict.

He said that if further tensions or conflicts were to arise, China “would carefully consider its actions”.

Sword stolen from revered Petchabun memorial

Authorities are hunting down the culprits behind the theft of a sword from Petchabun’s Pho Khun Pha Mueang Memorial.

Lomsak district chief Praiya Phakaratakul sought police assistance on Friday after reports that the metal sword held by the Pho Khun Pha Muang Memorial was removed from the revered statue.

Thieves apparently cut the sword from the right hand of the smaller of two statues honouring Petchabun’s prominent Pho Khun Pha Mueang. Sacred clothes wrapped around the waists of both the larger and smaller statues were also taken.

Officials said the sword was cleanly cut, leaving the handle in the statue’s hand.

The vandalism was reported by a memorial caretaker and citizens paying respects on Friday morning. It is believed the perpetrators carried out the act at night to avoid detection.

While no motive has been proposed, the district chief suggested the culprits may have been under the influence of drugs and could be seeking to sell the relics.

Authorities will investigate potential buyers.

The Lomsak district head called the act highly offensive to Petchabun citizens, emphasising that the memorial is a significant emotional and cultural landmark for the province.

Pho Khun Pha Mueang was a Thai nobleman and general from the late 12th to mid-13th century. He played a key role in the founding of the Sukhothai Kingdom.

Body of missing Chinese tourist found off Phuket’s Ya Nui beach

The body of a young Chinese man who went missing after drowning off Nai Harn beach on Wednesday was found floating near Koh Moo, off Ya Nui beach in Muang district on Friday morning.

The tourist went missing while swimming at Nai Harn beach at around 2.48pm on Oct 1, the Maritime Enforcement Command Centre Region 3 said on Friday. The centre identified the Chinese tourist as Yuan Wenyi, 21.

This prompted VAdm Weerudom Muangjeen, commander of the Third Naval area and director of the Maritime Enforcement Command Centre (MECC), to order a full-scale search operation, involving naval units, the tambon Rawai municipality, lifeguards and rescue teams.

Search efforts covered the area from Nai Harn beach to Ao Sen, extending to Ya Nui beach and Koh Kaeo, including coastal and rocky zones. Despite extensive efforts, the missing tourist had not been located.

On Friday morning, rescuers resumed the search along the rocky coastline from Ya Nui beach to Promthep Cape.

The body was later found floating in the sea near Koh Moo, off Ya Nui beach, at about 10am. Rescuers brought the body to shore at the search centre in front of Nai Harn beach. It was later handed over to authorities for autopsy and legal procedures, said the MECC Region 3.

Thaioil Moves Ahead with THB 18bn Asset Plan

The Board of Directors of Thai Oil Public Company Limited has approved the Asset Monetization plan, which will raise over THB 18 billion to strengthen the Company’s financial position and reduce debt, while continuing to utilise the leased assets through a leaseback arrangement without interrupting ongoing operations. The company plans to propose the project for shareholders approval on 9 December 2025.

Thai Oil Public Company Limited (TOP) led by Mr Bandhit Thamprajamchit, Chief Executive Officer and President of Thai Oil Plc, stated that on 25 September 2025, the Board approved the establishment of a new subsidiary, with PTT Tank holding a 49% stake. This subsidiary will invest in a 21-year long-term lease of selected infrastructure assets, located in Si Racha District, Chonburi Province, including crude oil storage tanks, Single Buoy Mooring (SBM), lorry loading station, and associated land.

TOP is entering a leaseback arrangement of the assets back to the company for ongoing oil refinery business. Upon completion of the transaction, the Company will realise additional cash inflows, thereby reinforcing its financial position, improving key financial ratios, and enhancing its capital recycling.

‘This Asset Monetization initiative is aligned with the Company’s strategic direction to strengthen its financial position. This transaction will provide stable long-term cash inflows from leased assets while allowing TOP to continue utilising them in its operations. It also creates additional value from existing infrastructure assets and helps reduce long-term financial risks amid dynamic economic and industrial environments,’ added Bandhit.

The collaboration with PTT Tank, the flagship infrastructure and logistics company of PTT Group’s refining and petrochemical businesses, will create synergies and enhance efficiency in integrated asset management operations.

Bandhit further stated that upon the establishment of the transaction, the Company has reviewed and considered the impacts on all stakeholders with primary emphasis on the interests of the Company and its shareholders. To ensure the transparency, the Board of Directors has appointed Capital Advantage Company Limited as the Independent Financial Advisor to assess the appropriateness of the transaction and prepare a report for shareholders’ consideration. The Company will convene the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders on 9 December 2025 via electronic platform. The record date to determine shareholders eligible to attend the meeting is set for 9 October 2025.

Bangkok eyes Oct 9 reopening for sinkhole-affected Samsen Road

Bangkok authorities are working around the clock to stabilise the area around Samsen police station and restore the road in front of Vajira Hospital, following the recent major subsidence that caused a sinkhole.

The sinkhole, measuring about 30 by 30 metres and 20 metres deep, opened on Sept 23, apparently caused by a leaking water pipe that led to soil subsidence and the collapse into a subway tunnel under construction.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) expects the backfilling work to be completed this weekend. Once the sand compaction and roadbed layers are reinforced, resurfacing will begin.

The BMA has tentatively set Oct 9 as the reopening date for Samsen Road in front of Vajira Hospital, which will restore full traffic flow to the area.

Bangkok governor Chadchart Sittipunt, who inspected the site on Friday morning, said that rain at dawn had left puddles in the subsidence area. Workers had already filled the cavity with sand and reinforced Samsen police station with temporary supports to prevent further damage, he added.

‘There may still be some soil settlement due to the rain, so we will wait for engineers and experts to give a full assessment of the next steps,’ Mr Chadchart said.

He noted that the operation was proceeding on schedule, with city work teams and pumping equipment on standby in case of heavier rain, in line with directives from the Mass Rapid Transit Authority.

Meanwhile, hospital operations are gradually returning to normal. Ampan Vimonvattana, deputy dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Vajira Hospital under Navamindradhiraj University, said patient numbers have surged this week, as many who postponed appointments after last week’s collapse were now returning.

On Thursday alone, more than 5,000 patients – both scheduled and walk-ins – sought treatment, she said. To assist them, the hospital arranged shuttle drop-off points at Sri Yan, Sirindhorn and St Gabriel’s School, as well as taxis for patients needing direct transport from the hospital, she added.

On Thursday, about 1,300 cubic metres of sand were added, bringing the total used to backfill the site to around 3,500 cubic metres. Workers dismantled damaged concrete slabs in the cavity and pushed sand beneath Samsen police station to stabilise the ground.

Temporary short piles have also been installed to strengthen the structure. So far, no significant structural shifts have been observed, according to authorities.