Bangkok:Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has launched a comprehensive mission to revitalize the city by deploying doctors for public care and accelerating water drainage in six districts.
According to Thai News Agency, Bangkok Governor Chatchart Sittipunt reported a significant improvement in the flood situation, with water levels subsiding by 90%. However, six districts including Min Buri, Nong Chok, Prawet, Saphan Sung, Lat Krabang, and Bueng Kum, which encompass 97 communities, remain affected. The BMA is prioritizing water drainage efforts, especially in areas like Flora Ville Village in Nong Chok, where flooding persists.
Governor Sittipunt, alongside deputy governors, visited the Athletes' Village in Saphan Sung District to oversee flood relief efforts under the "Together We Restore Bangkok" initiative. A mobile medical unit provided free health check-ups and basic treatments, while rabies vaccinations were offered for pets. The governor also inspected ongoing waste management efforts, crucial for restoring normalcy as floodwaters recede.
Bangkok's flood prevention system is managing a water volume of 2,300 cubic meters per second, with a capacity to handle over 3,000 cubic meters. Efforts to drain water are underway, including opening floodgates and deploying water-pushing boats in canals. The BMA is also coordinating with the Royal Irrigation Department to manage water flow towards the Gulf of Thailand, addressing challenges posed by the flat terrain downstream.
Despite recent improvements, concerns remain about potential water inflow from eastern areas and the Pa Sak Chonlasit Dam. The weather forecast indicates expected rain, prompting close monitoring and urging residents in previously flooded areas to stay vigilant.
In response to debris left by the flood, Bangkok has initiated an extensive waste collection campaign. In the Rom Klao area, 3,200 tons of waste have been collected over five days, with ongoing efforts supported by multiple government agencies. The cleanup in Nak Kila Village is progressing, with half of the garbage already cleared.
Governor Sittipunt emphasized the need for future housing development permits to account for flood risks and the importance of updating high-risk area databases. He expressed gratitude to all entities involved in flood relief and stressed the urgency of restoring normalcy in the city to allow residents to resume their daily lives and work.