The Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) is expediting restoration work along Chalong Krung Road in Lat Krabang district os Bangkok after heavy rain and strong winds toppled dozens power poles, causing damage to vehicles, homes and electricity infrastructure. All traffic lanes were expected to reopen later on Saturday.
The incident occurred on Friday evening, when thunderstorms and strong gusts hit the district in eastern Bangkok, particularly along Chalong Krung Road. The powerful winds caused rows of electricity poles to break loose and topple in succession, crushing more than 30 vehicles travelling on the road or parked nearby.
Four people were reported injured, with three of them treated at hospital.
Power and communication lines were torn down and scattered across the road surface, disrupting electricity supply, telecommunications and internet service in the area. Police immediately closed the affected traffic lanes to ensure public safety.
The affected stretch of road runs from the Lam Ko Phai bridge to the traffic lights in front of Lat Krabang Industrial Estate. Separate detour routes for small vehicles and large trucks were set up, leading to some congestion on nearby roads, according to local reports.
ML Julachak Chakrabandhu, the MEA assistant governor, visited the site on Saturday to observe operations, saying that more than 80% of the fallen poles and debris had been cleared using cranes and heavy machinery.
A detailed inspection found that 32 power poles measuring 22 metres and 57 poles measuring 32 metres were damaged he said.
However, repairs and installation of replacement poles are expected to take additional time and must be carried out with extra caution because gas pipelines are located below ground, requiring careful excavation work.
Efforts were under way to clear all obstructions and restore full traffic flow on Chalong Krung Road, although some congestion may persist in sections where electrical repairs are ongoing.
ML Julachak said the authority was prepared to take responsibility for all eligible damages arising from the incident, including medical expenses for injured persons and repair costs for damaged vehicles, buildings and residential properties. Those affected could submit claims directly to the MEA, he said.
