A significant sinkhole, measuring approximately 10 meters in width, 5 meters in length, and 3 meters in depth, emerged at the Kesa Komon intersection on Nakhon Chai Si Road in the Dusit District of Bangkok. The incident, attributed to road subsidence, prompted authorities to close the affected traffic routes urgently late Sunday night.
Eyewitnesses reported observing long cracks developing on the road surface around 7 PM. At that time, vehicles were still able to navigate the area without issue. However, by 9 PM, the situation worsened dramatically as the road began to collapse rapidly.
Niphon Srirueang, Director of the Canal System Division at the Bangkok Drainage and Sewerage Department, explained that the sinkhole occurred near the bridge approach, which was currently under construction as part of the Prem Prachakorn Canal embankment project. This project spans approximately 2 kilometers and involves significant earthworks, including canal bed preparation and concrete pouring.
Preliminary investigations suggest that a burst water pipe located beneath the bridge caused the collapse. The pipe’s failure led to the erosion of soil under the bridge, allowing water to flow into the canal and ultimately resulting in the subsidence of the roadway. Local authorities are currently assessing the situation to ensure public safety and prevent further incidents.