Bangkok: No oil spill point has been found yet! A 24-hour operation has been launched in Bangkok to urgently find the source, potentially tracing it back to the railway line.
According to Thai News Agency, Bangkok Governor Chatchart Sittipunt stated that this morning, officials continued excavating along the 14-inch oil pipeline to a depth of approximately 2 meters in the drainage system near Chueapleng Road, under the Rama III Bridge U-turn in Khlong Toei district. Despite heavy rain for about two hours last night, the search continued 24 hours a day. So far, no clear leak has been found, only oil stains and an accumulated oil smell. Officials are spraying foam to prevent flammable vapors, monitoring vapor levels, and strictly controlling the area. There are plans to continue excavating to the railway line by noon or afternoon today to pinpoint the exact source of the leak. Governor Chatchart added that the high-pressure 40-bar oil pipeline is approximately 32 years old and is a main pipeline with a high flow rate. Therefore, even a small leak could lead to oil accumulation, requiring a thorough investigation.
Meanwhile, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has prepared temporary shelters for residents affected by the noise and machinery operation, providing 24-hour service. The surrounding area has 31 households, totaling 93 people. Initially, 8 people have expressed their willingness to relocate to the temporary shelters, with 10 more currently under consideration. 75 people have not yet agreed to move. The private oil company will cover all expenses.
For safety reasons, officers have designated the area as a no-entry zone, prohibiting smoking and any sparks. Oil vapor emissions are monitored every hour.
Mr. Chatchart confirmed that the overall situation is not yet a cause for concern, and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) will continue operations with relevant agencies until the source of the problem is identified and the mission is completed.