Siriphong updates on the water leakage situation in the Purple Line MRT tunnel at Wongwian Yai intersection, noting a declining leakage rate and no additional subsidence of buildings or structures. He orders continued monitoring for an additional two days to ensure safety.
On 17 Jul 2026, Siriphong Angkasakulkiat, Deputy Minister of Transport, reported progress on resolving water leakage into the Purple Line MRT tunnel construction project from Tao Poon to Rat Burana (Kanchanaphisek Ring Road), contract 4, between Phut Bridge and Dao Khanong near Wongwian Yai intersection. He said the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) and the Metropolitan Police Bureau reported continuous monitoring indicates a significant reduction in water leaking or flowing into the tunnel. Simultaneously, subsidence of buildings and structures, along with cracks in the surrounding area, remained stable over five consecutive days, reflecting an overall improving situation.
Siriphong said that throughout this period, the Ministry of Transport, MRTA, and contractors have held continuous meetings with experts in tunnel engineering and underground construction to assess the situation, analyze causes, and devise comprehensive solutions. They have also evaluated the appropriateness of reopening traffic, always prioritizing engineering principles and safety standards.
He added that experts in tunnel and underground construction engineering have confirmed it may be possible to partially reopen traffic, as this would not affect repairs and would facilitate public convenience. After close monitoring over the past five days without subsidence, the overall situation has improved with no signs of additional risks. Nevertheless, he emphasized that related agencies must continue close monitoring and assessment for another two days to ensure maximum safety before restoring partial traffic access to the public.
It is expected that partial traffic reopening will occur on Sunday, 19 July 2026, from 06:00 GMT+7 onward. Initially, the one-way traffic route will be on Prachatipok Road from Wongwian Yai Intersection heading toward Ban Khaek Intersection. This approach aims to minimize impact on ongoing work and maintain safety standards. Traffic officers will be deployed to manage and assist road users and fully oversee traffic flow during the early phase of reopening.
In addition to expediting the situation resolution, the Ministry of Transport and MRTA prioritize mitigating impacts and providing compensation to affected people. So far, 128 apartment residents have received assistance, with one more case being followed up to ensure complete support. Meanwhile, 61 commercial building and street vendor operators have registered for compensation, which MRTA will expedite fairly and transparently.
The Deputy Minister of Transport confirmed that all steps follow directives from Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, who have urged all agencies to address the situation carefully, transparently, and with utmost priority on public safety before reopening or restoring traffic in the area.