Grease pipe blockage causes leak at Bangkok shopping mall

Officials from the Chatuchak district in Bangkok swiftly addressed concerns over a pipe incident at a prominent shopping mall in the Ladprao area, confirming it was not a sewage leak. The incident stemmed from a blockage in a grease pipe on the fourth floor, causing pressure buildup and a subsequent leak. Despite initial fears, no sewage was involved.

Yesterday morning, November 25, Phattharakorn Sinsuk, the director of the Chatuchak district, reported that the Environmental and Sanitation Division had been tasked with investigating the leak.

Their findings revealed that the leak originated from a grease disposal pipe connected to a restaurant on the shopping mall’s fourth floor. The blockage caused pressure at the pipe’s end, resulting in a leak at approximately 6.20pm on November 24.

Thankfully, the mall’s staff managed to clean and clear the affected area by 7.20pm on the same day.

The shopping centre, located at the well-known five-way intersection in Ladprao, was quick to clarify the nature of the leak. Contrary to initial reports that suggested a sewage spill, the yellowish substance observed was not human waste. The incident, initially described with alarm, was described as rain-like grease spilling into the clothing retail area.

Enquiries with mall officials revealed that eight shops suffered damage due to the leak. However, the management promptly reached out to negotiate compensation for all of the affected businesses.

Fortunately, no shoppers were directly impacted by this incident.

The Chatuchak District Office conducted a thorough examination of the restaurants on the fourth floor. Their investigation confirmed genuine blockages in the pipes and drainage systems. As a result, they recommended improved sanitation practices for the eateries, emphasising waste and grease management to prevent future occurrences.

Additionally, the mall’s building management was advised to undertake a comprehensive cleaning and maintenance of the entire plumbing system to avert any potential recurrences, reported KhaoSod.