Bangkok: Almost 24 hours have passed since a tragic incident occurred at the Orange Line electric train construction project, where a worker, identified as Mr. Sarawut or Dao, 33, from Sisaket, fell into a 23-meter deep pile-drilling hole. Despite continuous efforts, the search team has yet to locate him, and time is of the essence as they hope for a miracle within the critical 72-hour window.
According to Thai News Agency, the incident took place in the Bang Khun Non-Cultural Center section, located between Soi Lan Luang 6 and 8 in Pom Prap Sattru Phai District. Initially thought to be 19 meters deep, the hole was later measured to be 23 meters deep and 2x4 meters wide. Mr. Sarawut was reportedly tightening nuts on a steel plate at the mouth of the hole when the rain-soaked ground gave way, causing him to fall along with the sliding soil.
Rescue efforts have been ongoing around the clock. Despite attempts to use a sling to access the hole, the clay-heavy ground thwarted these efforts. Instead, a backhoe has been employed to expand the hole, supported by plywood to stabilize the soil. A 3D scanning device has been lowered into the hole to assist in locating Mr. Sarawut, while iron sheets and steel pipes have been placed strategically to prevent further soil erosion. Additionally, a 52-ton crane with a 12.29-meter arm has been utilized to transport and press piles around the hole to stabilize the area.
In a bid to enhance the chances of success, officials have managed to drill and open the ground 6 meters deep, inserting a breathing tube at the suspected point of the fall. Efforts to redirect the sliding soil to the side are also underway, particularly as rain continues to affect the area.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt visited the site to discuss the situation with the engineering team. Further updates from Governor Chadchart are anticipated following these discussions.