Bangkok: A section of road in central Bangkok dramatically collapsed on Wednesday, leaving a large sinkhole that disrupted traffic, damaged infrastructure and prompted evacuations in the surrounding area.
There were no casualties, but three vehicles were damaged by the collapse, said Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt. He said officials believe the collapse was caused by construction work on an underground railway station.
The sinkhole opened near Vajira Hospital on Samsen Road in Dusit district, according to a post on X by English-language TV channel Thai PBS World.
Videos of the moment of the collapse showed the surface of the road slowly sinking, pulling down several electricity poles and damaging water pipes.
Cars tried to reverse as the hole grew larger and completely severed the four-lane road. One edge of the hole stopped right in front of a police station, exposing its underground structure.
A nearby hospital said it would close outpatient services for two days. Bangkok city officials said the hospital building was not affected, but people were ordered to evacuate from the police station and other buildings nearby.
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Officials have also shut down electricity and water in the area. Chadchart said relevant authorities are working to repair the hole as quickly as possible amid concerns that heavy rain could cause further damage. Bangkok is currently in the monsoon season.
