160-foot landslide sinks three vehicles in Bangkok

A massive sinkhole that suddenly formed in the Thai capital Bangkok has buried three vehicles, forcing the evacuation of nearby hospitals and local residents.

The Royal Thai Police (RTP) said the landslide occurred in front of Bhajira Hospital on Samsen Road in the capital’s Dusit district at around 7am local time on Wednesday (September 24). The hole is about 30 by 30 meters (98 by 98 feet) and 50 meters (160 feet) deep.

A police statement said, “The landslide has created a 30x30-meter wide, 50-meter deep hole in front of Bhajira Hospital, which is at risk of collapsing further. Two electric poles and a station wagon fell into it after the incident.”

Local newspaper The Nation reported that the Samsen Metropolitan Police Station was also damaged by the collapse. Two other vehicles, including their tow truck, fell into the sinkhole.

Bhajira Hospital was also evacuated and patients were evacuated. Residents in the surrounding areas were also ordered to leave their homes for safety.

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt told the media, “Initial investigations indicate that the sinkhole was caused by construction work on a nearby underground metro station.”

The Nation reported that there were fears that the sinkhole could get bigger due to bad weather and monsoon rains. However, no casualties have been reported so far.

A video circulating on social media showed a sudden landslide on a busy road. Several cars quickly backed up, but some fell straight into the sinkhole. The sinkhole exposed the city’s underground infrastructure.

RTP reported that the National Police Commissioner has ordered the Metropolitan Police Bureau to take swift action in coordination with relevant agencies, including the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration.

Police said, "Related agencies have been asked to work in coordination to ensure necessary assistance to deal with the road closures, major water pipe damage, and loss to citizens."