Bangkok: Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province is accelerating the raising of flood walls and adding bunkers along the Chao Phraya River fence to prevent flooding at Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan.

According to Thai News Agency, the province has taken these measures following an increase in the discharge rate of the Chao Phraya Dam, which has caused the Chao Phraya River’s water level to rise continuously. This rise has led to distress among riverside homes, especially at Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan. In response, the province has mobilized soldiers and members of the Territorial Defense Volunteers to quickly raise the embankment and reinforce the 2.60-meter-high bunkers along the 700-meter-long fence adjacent to the Chao Phraya River. These efforts aim to prevent flooding and inundation of key areas of the temple. The current water level at the pier in front of the temple, where the two rivers meet, is only 30 centimeters below the crest of the embankment, and some nearby homes have already experienced overflowing water.

Despite the rising water levels, Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan remains open for the public to pay respects to the large Buddha image. The parking lot and roads have not yet been flooded, but visitors are advised to exercise caution when walking near the pier for safety.