Bangkok: Governor Chatchart Sittipunt inspected the Phra Khanong Canal after receiving reports from residents about concrete debris from construction projects being dumped into the canal. He thanked the public for being vigilant and providing information, stating that dumping concrete or construction materials into canals is unacceptable as it causes silting, impairs drainage, and harms the environment. Construction waste must be disposed of properly.
According to Thai News Agency, a site visit revealed two ongoing construction projects in the area: the Phra Khanong pumping station improvement project and the construction of a walkway along the Phra Khanong canal. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) will expedite the investigation to determine which project dumped the concrete debris into the canal and will identify those responsible for addressing the issue.
"If concrete was actually poured into the water, full legal action must be taken against both the contractor and those involved. Every construction project in the area must be responsible for the environment. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration will instruct both the Drainage Department and the district offices to be more stringent," Governor Chatchart said.
The Phra Khanong Canal is a vital drainage route in Bangkok, connecting to the Prawet Canal, Khlong Tan, and other canals before draining into the Chao Phraya River via the Phra Khanong pumping station. Maintaining the canal's capacity and readiness to accommodate water is therefore crucial for preventing and mitigating flooding in Bangkok.
If the public finds garbage, cement debris, stone fragments, or construction materials being dumped into canals and drainage systems, they can report it to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) via Traffy Fondue or the BMA hotline at 1555 so that officials can investigate and take further action.