Bangkok: The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) has announced significant progress in addressing the road subsidence issue in front of Vajira Hospital, with plans to expedite sand filling and road paving efforts within six days.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Kitti Ekwallop, Assistant Governor of the MRTA, alongside Dr. Chakrawut Maneerit, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Vajira Hospital, Mr. Watcharapol Kongsawat, Director of Construction Management, and Mr. Thianchai Wongsuwan, Director of Dusit District, provided updates on the situation that has affected traffic and access to hospital services. The team has commenced sand filling operations, aiming to open the road for public use within the specified timeframe.
Mr. Kittikorn reported that a 200-ton crane was deployed to relocate an electrical transformer and other obstructive structures. Water pipes were also segmented and removed from the site. Sand filling is proceeding with a revised plan, as two subsurface holes were discovered during preparations. The first hole, approximately 30 centimeters in size, was found near a water pipe, and the other near a wall, likely due to concrete shrinkage. Adjustments to the sand filling strategy have been implemented to ensure proper compaction and prevent further subsidence, targeting the use of approximately 2,000 cubic meters of sand daily.
Mr. Thianchai noted that large trucks entering the construction site have compounded traffic congestion, affecting hospital accessibility. In response, shuttle buses have been arranged to transport patients and relatives from strategic locations such as Sriyan, Sirindhorn BTS Station, and in front of Soi Samsen 13. The public is advised to avoid the hospital roads unless necessary and to consider public transport or boats as alternatives.
Dr. Chakrawut mentioned that the hospital served over 4,000 patients and about 8,000 relatives today. Despite the traffic challenges, internal hospital services operated smoothly, with many individuals opting for public transportation. Tomorrow, which is typically the busiest day, is expected to see a rise in patient numbers, with an estimated 5,000 patients anticipated, as some have received early treatment following appointment rescheduling last week.
Mr. Kittikorn stated that while no official budget estimate for the repairs has been determined, the priority remains on restoring normal road functions within the six-day target.