Sukhothai:The Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives is fast-tracking the Pak Phra Lowland Project (SK6) and the construction of the Sukhothai West Bank Bypass Canal to address flooding and drought issues in the region.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Suriya Jungrungreangkit, along with Deputy Minister Ms. Piyarat Tiyapairat, visited the project sites to oversee the management of lowland areas and gather feedback from local residents. The inspection was attended by Mr. Noparit Sirikosol, Governor of Sukhothai Province, officials from the National Water Resources Office, and other government and local representatives.
Mr. Suriya emphasized that the development of water management strategies in Sukhothai is crucial for effective flood prevention and agricultural support. The Pak Phra Lowland Project (SK6) is designed to store up to 92 million cubic meters of water, scheduled between 2029 and 2032, benefiting 46,000 rai of land across Sukhothai, Phichit, and Phitsanulok provinces.
The Sukhothai West Bank Flood Mitigation Canal Project, covering Si Samrong, Mueang Sukhothai, and Kongkrailas districts, features an 80-meter-wide, 45-kilometer-long concrete-lined canal. It has a drainage capacity of 300 cubic meters per second, including sluice gates and road culverts to divert water from the Yom River's western bank. The Royal Irrigation Department plans a feasibility study in 2027, with construction from 2028 to 2030, benefiting over 12,000 rai of land.
Currently, the SK6 project is under feasibility studies and public consultations. The Royal Irrigation Department has been directed to expedite these processes to ensure timely project completion and reduce future flooding risks in Sukhothai province.