Bangkok –
A large sinkhole occurred in front of Vajira Hospital on Samsen Road on Wednesday morning (September 24th), bringing an urgent response from both the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM).
DDPM Director-General, Mr. Chhetta Mosikarat, assigned Deputy Director-General Mr. Saharatwong Sakulwiwat to join the Bangkok Governor in assessing the situation on-site. In coordination with BMA’s Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office, DDPM dispatched Thailand’s national Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team to support the operation.
The USAR team arrived at 10:00 AM equipped with specialized motion-detection cameras designed to monitor structural shifts. These tools are critical for evaluating the stability of nearby buildings and ensuring the safety of emergency personnel working in the affected zone.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the area closely to prevent further risks and ensure public safety. As of press time, the exact cause of the sinkhole collapse is unknown however the Bangkok Governor stated that construction of the purple line nearby is believed to have caused soil disruption to the area.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed that the collapsed road situation is under control and is ordering an investigation to find those responsible and hold them accountable. There were no known injuries as of press time but significant property damage. Samsen Police Station nearby is at major risk due to no retaining wall.
