Life Returns to a Shocked Hospital
All services are back on at the Vajira Hospital in Bangkok, just days after a dramatic sinkhole forced a sudden closure. Emergency rooms, clinics and treatment centres are now working at full capacity.
People inside feel huge relief—Wednesday’s closure upended lives when a massive 30-by-30-metre, 50-metre deep sinkhole appeared outside. The hospital quickly urged all but urgent cases to stay away. Staff ask patients needing prescriptions to use online services, keeping crowds down. They want everyone safe, even as inspectors say the danger is over.
Inspectors Give All-Clear
Medical faculty dean Dr. Jakravoot Maneerit tells Thai PBS: the Dipangkorn Rasmijoti building is officially safe. ‘We’ve had experts check everything. The walls held firm—they’ve given us the green light,’ he said.
He adds, ‘Every safety standard is met. We’re back in business.’ That’s a lifeline for thousands relying on the hospital. But Dr. Maneerit stresses, routine checks will continue in coming days. Vigilance is still vital.
A Day of Panic Sparks Relief
On Wednesday, chaos erupted as the gaping chasm swallowed earth near the hospital’s entrance. Faulty water pipes underneath caused the soil collapse. The nearby Samsen police station evacuated and is still off limits.
Precaution paid off: Vajira’s reinforced walls prevented a tragedy. But nerves are frayed. Residents watched as vital care vanished, even if only for a few days.
Road Repair Races Against Time
Signs of normal life are returning for hospital patients and staff, yet outside, repairs drag on. Samsen Road—still closed—might take two more weeks to reopen.
The Mass Rapid Transit Authority works round the clock to fix the water-damaged tunnel. The neighbourhood waits and wonders: When will full normality return, and can it ever feel safe again?