Bangkok:A team led by Mr. Sondhi Limthongkul is urging the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to reconsider its city planning and water management strategies. The group, comprising academics and former engineers, is advocating for the reclamation of flood retention areas and waterways, which they see as essential for preventing future flooding.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Panthep Puapongs highlighted the prolonged flooding in the eastern regions of Bangkok, the worst in 43 years, and expressed intentions to pursue legal action against responsible officials. The group is pushing for the reinstatement of flood retention basins in future city plans and is organizing a public rally at City Hall Plaza on October 9th to demand these changes.
The team emphasized the potential of six wetland areas to store millions of cubic meters of water, which could be crucial for the city's infrastructure. M.L. Korn Kasemsri stated the flooding damage might exceed 10 billion baht and criticized changes in land use that have diminished green spaces and floodways previously part of royal initiatives. He questioned whether these changes benefit Bangkok residents or real estate interests.
Mr. Sondhi pointed out that Bangkok's flooding issues require broader responsibility beyond just the city governor, suggesting the involvement of higher government officials, including the Prime Minister. He also expressed concern over the lack of progress on a flood prevention dam proposed by the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
The group, part of the "Reclaiming Thailand" initiative, is collecting citizen signatures to support the reuse of flood retention areas. They stress the importance of public hearings and media involvement to ensure diverse perspectives are considered in addressing Bangkok's flooding challenges.
As the rally approaches, the group calls for a comprehensive review of urban planning and water management policies to prevent future flooding disasters in Bangkok. However, they acknowledge that allegations and figures presented require verification against official data for accuracy and fairness.