Bangkok: Dr. Ae has advised the immediate installation of measurement markers to prevent further soil movement in the area surrounding Vajira Hospital. Despite the concerns, the Vajira Hospital building remains safe as it is supported by piles that are deeper than the nearby BTS tunnel.
According to Thai News Agency, Professor Dr. Suchatvee Suwansawat, former president of the Engineering Institute of Thailand, assessed the situation after a road collapse was reported in front of Vajira Hospital. The collapse has resulted in a hole deep enough to reach the subway tunnel, although the Vajira MRT Station remains unaffected. The soil is reportedly moving in a cone-like pattern from the Samsen Police Station and the hospital into the tunnel, leading to its partial collapse. Dr. Suchatvee emphasized the need to seal the tunnel hole immediately to prevent more soil from flowing and to mitigate the risk of further damage, especially with impending rain.
Dr. Suchatvee urged authorities to mark the road surface up to the intersection with pins, as the soil movement isn't visible to the naked eye. He warned that if a sinkhole develops, it could be too late to prevent significant damage, citing an incident earlier in the day when an electric pole fell into the hole, increasing its size. He explained that the only way to monitor soil movement effectively is by setting up pins, enabling authorities to initiate evacuation if necessary.
He further noted that if the tunnel remains unsealed, soil will continue to move downward, remaining undetectable to the naked eye. Therefore, the installation of measurement equipment is critical. The area is considered operational, requiring expert supervision of machinery. The Sam Sen Metropolitan Police Station is of particular concern, as its piles have reportedly sunk more than halfway into the building. Dr. Suchatvee expressed hope that the station does not collapse, as such an event would lead to a significant disaster. He has urged everyone to evacuate and avoid the area.
Commenting on the outpatient building at Vajira Hospital, Dr. Suchatvee highlighted its safety due to its high-rise structure and deep piles that extend below the tunnel level. The building is supported by a retaining wall, contributing to its stability. With the commitment of the hospital team, measuring pins will be installed to monitor any movement. Engineering principles affirm the stability of both the hospital building and the subway station.
Dr. Suchatvee thanked the hospital, the contractor, and the engineering team for their efforts in providing essential equipment to ensure the safety and comfort of patients and their relatives. He identified the deepest part of the hole as the most dangerous, warning that the subsidence could worsen with rain. Without measuring pins, it is difficult to predict how long the collapse might continue. He suggested implementing a system to transmit signals to mobile phones as a more straightforward solution than plugging the tunnel hole.