BANGKOK: Bangkok authorities launched an emergency operation on Monday evening (Sept 7) after residents near the boundary between Khlong Toei and Yan Nawa districts reported strong chemical and oil-like odours rising from drains beneath the elevated section of Rama 3 Road.
The fumes prompted concerns about public safety, including the possibility that flammable vapours could cause a fire or an explosion within the drainage system.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt led an urgent inspection alongside officials from Khlong Toei and Yan Nawa district offices, the Department of Drainage and Sewerage, the Pollution Control Department and rescue teams.
The operation focused on assessing the risks and preventing oil contamination from spreading through Bangkok’s drainage network.
Three-part emergency response
Response teams deployed oil-absorbent booms inside the drainage system to contain the contamination and prevent it from reaching neighbouring areas.
They also applied a specialised oil-removal solution to reduce odours and vapour emissions. The treatment was described as environmentally friendly and intended to help break down oil molecules without leaving residues in the ecosystem.
Officials used monitoring equipment to check for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the air around drain openings and nearby areas, assessing potential respiratory risks to residents.
The measures were intended to contain the contamination while providing scientific information to guide the response.
Residents warned against flames and sparks
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) urged residents near Rama 3 Road in Yan Nawa and Khlong Toei to observe safety precautions to prevent further incidents.
People were warned not to light fires, smoke or undertake any activity that could generate sparks near drain openings, because oil vapours could ignite.
The report highlighted the need to protect people with respiratory conditions, young children and older residents.
Anyone experiencing dizziness, nausea or breathing difficulties was advised to move to a well-ventilated area away from the fumes and seek medical attention immediately.
Investigation continues into source of leak
Chadchart said the BMA and relevant agencies would continue monitoring the situation closely and accelerate efforts to identify the source of the oil entering the drainage system.
The investigation would support any necessary legal action and longer-term measures to prevent a recurrence.
Residents in Khlong Toei, Yan Nawa and surrounding areas who notice further oil contamination or unusually strong oil-like odours can report the location through the BMA hotline 1555 or Traffy Fondue platform. Bangkok’s official reporting channels operate around the clock. - The Nation/ANN
