Bangkok: Bangkok is enforcing all safety measures, with continuous care for the public following the collapse of Samsen Road. Mr. Ekwaranyu Amrapal, spokesperson for the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), revealed the actions and measures taken by the BMA and related agencies to care for the public following the road collapse in front of Vajira Hospital in Dusit District on September 24, 2015. The focus is on comprehensive care, with the highest priority given to the safety, well-being, and compensation for those affected.
According to Thai News Agency, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) engineering and safety measures, including the Dusit District Office, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, the Department of Public Works, and the Drainage Department, in collaboration with the project contractor, the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA), are expediting landslide prevention measures by pouring concrete to fill the entrance holes to the train stations and finding ways to prevent rainwater from flowing into the collapsed holes. This includes installing high-pressure water pumps and arranging sandbags to block drainage pipes at key locations nearby to ensure the safety of both workers and the public. This is followed by expedited repairs and restoration, restoring the road surface to normal use as soon as possible.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's Department of Public Works has also deployed Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) equipment to scan for underground cavities along Samsen Road. Initial results indicate no risk, but the BMA confirms it will continue to monitor the situation to ensure maximum public safety.
In addition, officers will be provided to facilitate travel on surrounding roads, in conjunction with Samsen Police Station, and to oversee safety when boarding and disembarking boats, in conjunction with the Marine Department.
Coordination and mental health care: The water supply system has now returned to normal operation, although pressure in some areas is still not at full capacity. Meanwhile, Public Health Service Centers 6 and 38 in Bangkok have been closely assessing and providing mental support to those affected, to boost public morale.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt and his executive team have been continuously visiting the area since the incident (September 24, 2015). He has assigned officials from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DMD) to monitor safety around the clock. He emphasized that the BMA will provide full support, both equipment and personnel, to expedite the resolution and prevent future problems.
In terms of public assistance and relief, the Dusit District Office is expediting public relations efforts to encourage affected individuals, including police officers, their families, commercial buildings, and rental homes, to register for relief from the MRTA. The MRTA has provided food, drinking water, and arranged temporary accommodations at the Suan Oi Recreation Center in Dusit District, as well as other accommodations. The MRTA is coordinating and providing assistance.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) would like to reaffirm that all measures are driven by concern, care, and seriousness to ensure the safety and best possible care for citizens, with excellent cooperation from all sectors.