Bangkok's Wongwian Yai Station Area: Accelerating Ground Subsidence Mitigation and Traffic Restoration from Metro Construction

Deputy Minister of Transport, Siripong Angkasakulkiat, inspected the progress of measures to address the ground subsidence incident near Wongwian Yai Station, part of the Purple Line (Taopoon–Ratburana) construction project in Bangkok. He emphasized that public safety is the top priority and urged relevant agencies to accelerate the restoration of the affected area and the return of normal traffic conditions. During the meeting, Director-General of the Department of Rail Transport, Picheth Kunathammarak, and other officials were present. They received updates on engineering aspects, structural integrity, area restoration, and traffic management. Specifically, the grouting (material injection) operation to stabilize the ground has been completed at 40 points, with plans to proceed with approximately 80 more. This process is expected to take 2-3 months to enhance ground stability and mitigate the impact of groundwater. Continuous monitoring of displacement and stability assessments will be conducted. The immediate focus is on stabilizing the area. Displacement of buildings and structures is being closely monitored, and the effectiveness of grouting will be evaluated. Subsequently, water levels within the tunnel will be gradually reduced to inspect for leaks, and appropriate repair plans will be determined. Additional engineering measures will be considered if necessary, always prioritizing the safety of the public and workers. Deputy Minister Siripong stated, "The Ministry of Transport places the utmost importance on public safety. I have instructed all agencies to proceed rapidly based on technical expertise, while also taking care of those affected. We will consider restoring traffic conditions section by section as engineering readiness allows, to enable citizens to resume their normal lives and businesses as quickly as possible."