This is the dramatic moment a sinkhole swallowed up vehicles as it opened in the road during rush hour in Bangkok this morning.

The 30ft wide chasm appeared as concrete gave way and crashed some 50ft into the abyss at around 7:15 am in the Dusit district of the Thai capital.

Electricity poles and cables were dragged downwards causing flashes of sparks as they exploded.

Onlookers said a police truck was dragged into the hole. Officials closed the length of the Samsen Road and redirected traffic while rescue teams scrambled to search through the debris.

Police in Thailand are now investigating whether there were any casualties or injuries from the accident. They said it is believed to have been caused by a leaking pipe during ongoing roadworks at the scene.