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Bangkok Conducts 24-Hour Search for Oil Leak No Clear Leak Found Yet, Plans to Drill to Railway Line

Politic11 Sep 2026 11:55 GMT+7

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Bangkok Conducts 24-Hour Search for Oil Leak No Clear Leak Found Yet, Plans to Drill to Railway Line

Overall, there is nothing to be concerned about. Governor Chadchart revealed that Bangkok has formed a team to collaborate in the 24-hour operation to locate the oil leak in Khlong Toei, planning to drill up to the railway line and arranging temporary shelters to support affected residents.


11 Sep 2026 GMT+7 Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok updated the situation via a live broadcast regarding the search for leaks in the oil pipeline contaminating the drainage system along Chuea Phloeng Road beneath the Rama 3 Bridge U-turn in Khlong Toei District. He stated that all agencies, together with experts, excavated soil and cut concrete slabs overnight to quickly inspect the oil pipeline route, aiming to find leaks and fix the problem at its source as soon as possible.

Regarding the progress this morning, despite heavy rain for about two hours last night, officials continued drilling to open the ground about 2 meters deep along the 14-inch oil pipeline. So far, no clear leak has been found, only oil stains and accumulated oil odors in the area. Officials sprayed foam to prevent flammable vapors and maintained strict monitoring. They plan to continue drilling toward the railway line area between noon and this afternoon for further inspection.


The oil pipeline is a high-pressure line operating at 40 bars, in use for 32 years, transporting various types of oil to depots including the airport and Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. Although the pipeline structure remains strong, as a main line with high flow rates, even a small leak could accumulate, so a thorough inspection is required to prevent potential impacts.

To support the 24-hour drilling and concrete cutting operations, which require heavy machinery and may cause noise disturbances, the Khlong Toei District Office has conducted outreach and coordinated with residents around the site to facilitate and minimize impact. The area includes 10 commercial buildings housing 31 households totaling 93 people, including 4 elderly and 2 children.


Coordination revealed that 8 residents wish to relocate temporarily, 10 are considering it, and 75 do not wish to move. A private oil company is responsible for all temporary shelter expenses for those relocating, enabling officials to continue using machinery throughout the night. This arrangement also helps reduce disruption to residents' rest in the area.

The Bangkok governor added that the command center has been moved away from the oil pipeline route. Oil vapor (LEL) is measured every hour, strict no-entry zones are enforced, and any sparks or smoking in the operation area are strictly prohibited. “Overall, the situation remains not concerning, and Bangkok will maintain a joint task force with relevant agencies until the mission is complete,” he said.