A giant sinkhole, approximately 30 meters deep, opened up in Thailand’s capital city, Bangkok, on Wednesday, swallowing part of a busy street and prompting local evacuations. The incident occurred near a hospital on Samsen Road, engulfing cars and electric poles. Three vehicles were damaged in the mishap, but authorities responded quickly to ensure safety. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Viral videos show the ground in front of a hospital in Bangkok suddenly collapsing, pulling down an electricity pole and damaging underground water pipes and live cables. The dramatic event brought traffic to a halt as the sinkhole opened up beneath the road. According to the Bangkok Post, the sinkhole measured roughly 30 by 30 metres. The sinkhole also damaged underground water pipes and live electrical cables, causing further disruptions.
According to Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, the collapse was likely caused by the ongoing construction of a nearby underground station. He, along with a team of officials, inspected the site and informed the media about the situation. He stated that soil had entered the tunnel, leading to the collapse of nearby structures and the rupture of a large water pipe.
Bangkok's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who also inspected the location, stated that fixing the tunnel and road will require at least a year. He mentioned that this matter will be prioritized in the initial meeting of his new cabinet. Meanwhile, authorities are striving to mend the hole swiftly due to worries that heavy rainfall might exacerbate the damage.
