Sai Ngam:Yotsanan is advocating for a mega-project valued at over 400 million baht aimed at addressing water conflicts in Sai Ngam District. The "Khlong Huai Noi" canal project seeks to resolve agricultural water disputes while incorporating innovative solutions from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation to alleviate poverty in Kamphaeng Phet.
According to Thai News Agency, Professor Dr. Yotsanun Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, visited the water management project at Sai Ngam Kindergarten School. During his visit, he met with local residents to discuss their concerns, accompanied by Mr. Surasit Wongwittayanant and Mr. Noppol Pholamnuay, MPs for Kamphaeng Phet, as well as Mr. Thanakorn Rattanakorn from the Prime Minister's Secretariat and other ministry executives.
The visit focused on the urgent need to address irrigation issues in the "3R-MC Canal" or "Huai Noi Canal." This 18.2-kilometer canal is crucial for over 108,125 rai of agricultural land between Sai Ngam and Lan Krabue districts. The Royal Irrigation Department reported that outdated irrigation structures and a shallow canal have decreased water control capacity, leading to frequent water shortages and conflicts among farmers.
To combat these issues, the Royal Irrigation Department has proposed a comprehensive improvement plan for the Huai Noi Canal irrigation system, costing 405 million baht. A pilot project, scheduled for the 2028 fiscal year, will upgrade eight movable sluice gates at a cost of 63 million baht, enhancing water management during dry seasons and reducing community conflicts.
Professor Dr. Yotsanan emphasized the government's commitment to prioritizing the needs of Kamphaeng Phet inhabitants. He noted the necessity of constructing a drainage weir to ensure sufficient water supply and prevent future disputes. Furthermore, he announced plans to integrate technology and innovation from his ministry to boost local income and alleviate poverty through projects like agricultural machinery support, customized fertilizer innovations, soil analysis, and research into crop varieties.
Additionally, the promotion of the "Thai Harvest Festival - Bananas and Local Products of Kamphaeng Phet" is expected to stimulate the grassroots economy. The Deputy Prime Minister stressed the importance of making research findings funded by taxpayers accessible to the public to increase their income. Kamphaeng Phet Rajabhat University has been tasked with assessing community needs to organize training and implement poverty alleviation initiatives. Prof. Dr. Yoschanan reiterated his dedication to fulfilling promises made to the people of Kamphaeng Phet.