Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has ordered urgent safety measures after a major sinkhole occurred this morning (Sept 24) in front of Vajira Hospital on Samsen Road, next to the construction site of the Purple Line MRT Extension’s Vajira Hospital Station. The collapse damaged a large water main, causing soil to enter the construction area and resulting in water leaks inside. No injuries were reported, though three vehicles were damaged.
Chadchart directed agencies to secure the area, which has been declared a restricted zone. Measures include shutting off water and electricity supplies, sealing tunnel leaks, assessing nearby structures, monitoring soil movement, and adjusting traffic with the assistance of police. He also established a special team to address risks from rainfall, which could cause erosion and trigger further collapse.
Vajira Hospital has suspended outpatient services for two days to ease congestion and ensure safety, while inpatient care continues. Other hospitals within the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) network are temporarily handling outpatients.
The BMA and the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) set up a joint command center to manage the situation, with progress reviews scheduled twice daily. Officials said the immediate priorities are structural stability and public safety.
The MRTA has also ordered a full investigation, partially closed the worksite, and evacuated nearby residents. The Samsen police station nearby was evacuated due to concerns about the building’s integrity.
