Nakhon phanom: The Ministry of Culture has announced the urgent need to accelerate the restoration of the Phra That Non Tan, a 121-year-old ancient site that recently collapsed due to heavy rains. Originally, cracks were identified in the structure, and repairs were planned. However, the unexpected weather conditions led to the monument’s collapse, prompting the Fine Arts Department to secure the area and search for valuables beneath the rubble.
According to Thai News Agency, reporters visited the site at Wat That, where the Phra That Non Tan once stood in Ban Tan, Non Tan Subdistrict, Tha Uthen District. The collapse of this symbol of Tha Uthen District, registered by the Fine Arts Department for over 121 years, has deeply saddened the local community as it served as a spiritual center.
The collapse occurred at 9:40 a.m. on October 12th. The Fine Arts Department responded by cordoning off the area and deploying 24-hour security to maintain order. The news team spoke with Mr. Jirapong Mongkolphan, the foreman overseeing the chedi’s restoration, who explained that workers had been preparing for renovations up until the collapse, which was preceded by sounds of metal bending and breaking.
Mr. Santichai Siriyat, the village headman, recounted past issues, including cracks in 2018 and a tilt in 2015, which led to multiple restoration efforts. Despite these efforts, the chedi collapsed on the day work was set to commence, fortunately without any injuries.
The Director of the Fine Arts Office Region 9 in Ubon Ratchathani emphasized the immediate need to recover valuables from the rubble and adjust the restoration budget, currently set at 3 million baht, to reflect the new circumstances. Meetings are ongoing with community members to discuss whether to rebuild the chedi as it was or in a new form.
Ms. Sabida Thaiset, Minister of Culture, confirmed that the Ministry has received reports from the Fine Arts Department and is coordinating with relevant agencies for security, artifact collection, and restoration planning. The Phra That Non Tan is recognized as a significant cultural symbol, reflecting the faith and wisdom of the Isan people.
Prior assessments had revealed structural cracks, and temporary reinforcements were made. Despite receiving funding for restoration this fiscal year, heavy rains led to moisture accumulation, causing the collapse before restoration could begin. Measures have been taken to secure the site, including filing a police report and deploying security to monitor the area.