Thai MRT authority takes responsibility for Bangkok sinkhole

It halts construction at affected area and will inspect all tunnels along the same line

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The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) has taken responsibility for the massive sinkhole dozens of metres deep in front of Vajira Hospital in Bangkok.

The location falls under Contract 1, which covers the design and construction of the tunnel and underground stations along the Taopoon-National Library section, involving a distance of 4.8km and worth 19.43 billion baht (S$778 million).

The contractor for this section is the CKST-PL joint venture, comprising CH Karnchang and Sino-Thai Engineering and Construction.

MRTA governor Gardphajon Udomdhammabhakdi visited the site with officials from the Ministry of Transport.

The MRTA has immediately halted construction at the affected area. It has also coordinated with utility providers and the local police to address the situation swiftly.

Meanwhile, traffic police blocked a section of Samsen Road where water was found seeping out early on Sept 25, just 2km from the sinkhole in front of Vajira Hospital.