Bangkok: The Engineering Institute of Thailand has expressed concerns regarding the potential spread of soft soil following a road collapse in front of Vajira Hospital. Initial assessments revealed ongoing water leaks, which have softened the soil beneath the road and could lead to further slides, particularly during periods of heavy rain.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Thanet Veerasiri, a consultant at the Engineering Institute of Thailand under Royal Patronage, explained that officials are actively working to address water leaks from both water and drainage pipes to stabilize the soil temporarily. The use of 3D scanning is aiding in measuring the affected area's dimensions to ensure safety and develop appropriate solutions.
The situation also impacts the building opposite the hospital, identified as the New Police Station, where some piles were found broken or cracked. This necessitates a thorough inspection to prevent potential dangers to both the public and officials in the vicinity. Mr. Thanet emphasized the importance of cordoning off high-risk areas to ensure public safety. The institute's proposed measures include controlling water leakage, restricting access to dangerous zones, and continuous monitoring of nearby structures.
Mr. Suriyachai Rawiwan, Director of the Office of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, noted that initial efforts focus on safeguarding residents and their property, including relocating vehicles trapped by the collapse. Evacuations have been ordered for vulnerable buildings, such as the Thipangkorn Building, with the assurance that resident safety remains under control.
Efforts to recover a vehicle from a tunnel were halted due to unstable conditions and persistent water flow, which weakened the soil further. A reassessment meeting is scheduled for 5:00 PM today, with the possibility of resuming operations tomorrow if conditions allow.
Repair plans for the tunnel involve collaboration between the civil engineering team, the Department of Public Works and Town and Country Planning, the contractor, and the builder to halt water inflow into the tunnel. The challenge lies in managing continuous water flow, which necessitates stopping the source before soil or sand can stabilize the area.
Concerns extend to the Samsen Police Station building, where ground level measurements indicate a sink of 23 meters, putting the structure at risk. With motion cameras in place to monitor any movement, recent data shows a 3-millimeter shift. The building relies on piles and soil support, and significant sliding could compromise its stability, raising the risk of collapse.