Bangkok Turns Airport Warehouse into a Lifeline
On July 28, a group of Thai volunteers rolled up their sleeves and transformed a dusty cargo hub at Don Mueang Airport into a bustling 1,800‑bed field hospital, ready to treat Covid‑19 patients with milder symptoms. As Thailand grapples with the biggest outbreak yet, the makeshift facility stands as a testament to civic spirit.
Rapid Response: From Shelves to Beds
- Walls were diced and drilled for toilets.
- Beds, blankets and medical gear were set up in record time.
- Volunteers worked side‑by‑side, turning a warehouse into a healing space.
Dr. Rienthong Nanna – former major‑general and senior hospital head – explained that the field hospital is a level 1+ setup, meaning it can admit a large number of patients who are not yet critically sick. If a patient’s condition worsens, they’re transferred to the Pitak Rachan field hospital.
“The setup is still a work in progress,” Rienthong admitted. “We’re ramping up the preparations and expect the influx of cases to keep climbing. More field hospitals will be necessary.”
Celebrating the King, Caring for the People
In a nod to the monarchy, volunteers held a small ceremony to unofficially open a third field hospital, christened “Tai Rom Prabaramee” – translating to “Under the Glory of His Majesty.” It coincided with King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s 69th birthday.
Thailand’s Ongoing Battle
Despite the launch of new medical facilities, the pressure on Bangkok’s health system remains high. The nation has struggled to roll out vaccines quickly – with only 5.6 % of the 66 million-plus population fully vaccinated and 19.2 % having received at least one dose. Thailand aims to inoculate 50 million people by year’s end, but in the meantime, it relies on community-driven hubs like this one.
In the face of mounting cases and public scrutiny, the Thai volunteers and medical teams remain resolute, turning an airport warehouse into a beacon of hope and a reminder that communal effort can still stand up to a pandemic.
