Land Subsidence in Bangkok during 1978–1988

Abstract

More than 4,550 km2 of Bangkok was affected by land subsidence between 1960 and 1988; maximum local subsidence exceeded 160 cm. Most subsidence was due to soil compression at 10–200 m depth in response to the reduction of the aquifers’ piezometric levels. Using aquifer characteristics, ground-water hydrochemistry and subsoil geotechnical properties, mathematical models have been developed to predict further subsidence and recharge response. To inhibit this subsidence, proper planning of land use, flood protection, waste water treatment, pollution control, and sound management of surface and ground-water resources are recommended.