Bangkok: The Department of Highways has announced the progress made in the first week of the demolition of the bridge for the M82 motorway project. This follows the collapse of a precast concrete launching gantry (LG) on Highway 35, also known as Rama 2 Road. The department emphasized the importance of public safety and has enlisted the Engineering Institute of Thailand (EIT) to closely monitor the process.
According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Highways reported that preparations have started for the demolition of the damaged bridge. This is being done under the supervision of experts from EIT, with safety measures in place to minimize disruption to road users. The concrete pouring for a section of the cantilever bridge across the Tha Chin River has been completed. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the incident and ensure adherence to project guidelines.
Mr. Piyapong Chiwatnakulpaisan, Director-General of the Department of Highways, explained that following the LG crane collapse on January 15, 2026, it was necessary to dismantle sections of the prestressed concrete bridge deck. Damage to the bridge deck and prestressed tendons, along with cracks in box girder sections, necessitated dismantling for safety reasons. The LG crane will be moved to systematically lift and cut the damaged prestressed concrete box girder sections, following strict engineering procedures. The process will be overseen by EIT experts with site control measures to ensure public safety.
The safety measures are divided into five dimensions: ensuring construction area safety, ensuring machinery safety, transforming LG operators into certified experts, adding independent safety experts, and maintaining open public relations. The Department of Highways, in collaboration with EIT experts, has completed a site assessment and verified the demolition plan's accuracy. Two key phases of the work have already been completed, including relocating and repositioning LG cranes.
The engineering team will verify method statements for moving the LG machinery for demolition and install a real-time structural health monitoring system. Regarding the concrete pouring for the cantilever bridge across the Tha Chin River, work is proceeding under strict safety measures. Concrete pouring and wire tensioning have been completed at one location, with work on remaining sections commencing next week.
The fact-finding investigation into the LG crane collapse involves expert civil engineers, police representatives, and legal experts. They have conducted site inspections and collected crucial evidence. A forensic engineering investigation, including physical data collection and laboratory testing, is planned to analyze the structural failure's cause.
The results will determine if the contractor adhered to design and contract terms and inform the Department of Highways' rights in the contract. The Department affirms its commitment to public safety and transparency throughout the process.