Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, conducted a solo inspection of the Samsen Road collapse site in the middle of the night, emphasizing the need for rapid resolution to ensure public safety. This visit followed his "Heart with Wings" mission in Udon Thani Province.
According to Thai News Agency, the Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA) is actively working on the demolition of the Samsen Police Station building both day and night to address the road collapse. Mr. Watcharapol Kongsawat, Deputy Director of the Purple Line Project, along with Dr. Anusang Jitsomkasem, Director of Vajira Hospital, and Mrs. Waranya Leelaburanapong, Director of Dusit District, have provided updates on the situation. The demolition process began with the removal of the lower right-most pillar to reduce force and weight, followed by robotic assistance to dismantle the upper structure. Alongside the building demolition, road surface repairs are underway.
The situation involves the addition of over 4,500 cubic meters of sand, with leveling trucks preparing for cement grout injection to improve soil stability. Robotic equipment is being deployed at night for the continued demolition process, as the building has subsided by 20-50 centimeters, causing a lean on both sides. Sand is being added urgently to support the structure.
Dr. Anusang reported that sensors have detected no movement in Vajira Hospital's structure since the incident. The hospital anticipates over 3,000 visitors today, with shuttle services operating as usual. Traffic adjustments are planned following the route's reopening, with a contingency plan meeting scheduled for the end of the month to address expected congestion as educational institutions resume.
During Anutin's inspection, he expressed gratitude to the officials working tirelessly to resolve the issue. He urged for the completion of operations as planned, assuring full government support. Emphasizing public safety, he reiterated the need for expedited demolition and soil stabilization to restore normalcy in the area.