Bangkok: Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Deputy Minister of Transport, reported that the ground in the Wongwian Yai tunnel has not subsided further, and water leakage has decreased, expressing confidence that the situation can be controlled within 12 days.
According to Thai News Agency, progress on resolving the tunnel leak of the Purple Line South at Wongwian Yai is entering its third day. The Deputy Minister revealed positive developments, noting that subsidence has not expanded and the amount of water leaking has decreased. He anticipates resolving the issue within approximately 12 more days and has instructed the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) to expedite compensation considerations for those affected by the area closure.
Siripong visited the construction site of the Purple Line South tunnel at Wongwian Yai intersection to monitor the progress of the subsidence issue, initially caused by water leakage inside the tunnel three days ago. He stated that the situation is improving, with no further subsidence observed. An inspection of surrounding buildings and houses within a 30-meter radius revealed no further subsidence, unusual sounds, or worrisome signs. Siripong urged the MRTA to address compensation for residents affected by the area closure, emphasizing the contractor's responsibility.
Inside the tunnel, water leakage has significantly reduced from approximately 50 cubic meters per hour to 20 cubic meters per hour, following the use of cement grouting to strengthen the soil layer. The results have been satisfactory, with building cracks initially at 8.7 centimeters reducing to just over 7 centimeters. The number of grouting injection points has increased from 4 to 6 to further reinforce the soil.
Siripong reiterated that the overall situation is improving, with stabilized monitoring figures. He expects the issue to be under control within 12 days or possibly sooner if plans proceed smoothly. Addressing concerns about rainfall, he clarified that the water inflow is groundwater and minimally affected by rain. The groundwater level in Bangkok is currently about 11 meters, reduced from 20 meters in the past due to the discontinued use of groundwater to prevent soil subsidence. Road surface cracks in the area result from traffic usage, especially by large vehicles causing vibrations. Siripong believes any new cracks outside the monitored area will be minor. The incident site remains closed to traffic until it is confirmed that there is no further subsidence, after which reopening will be considered.