Bangkok:Governor Chatchart Sittipunt has clarified criticisms surrounding the Bung Khubon and Bung Bang Chan flood control projects, asserting that these initiatives are based on scientific principles and aim to improve water management efficiency. The projects, conducted by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), focus on the "water retention basin" concept and are not royal initiatives.

According to Thai News Agency, Governor Chatchart highlighted that following the 2011 major floods, the Drainage Department explored the feasibility of six flood retention ponds. While four projects were terminated after public consultations, Khu Bon Pond and Bang Chan Pond remain under consideration. However, reviews indicate high investment costs, prompting comparisons with other drainage improvement approaches that may offer more cost-effective solutions.

A study by the project's consulting team estimates the comprehensive flood control project, including retention ponds, at around 11 billion baht, whereas enhancing canals and drainage systems is projected to cost about 6.7 billion baht. The BMA is thus evaluating options to upgrade canals for faster water transport, enhance Nong Bon swamp efficiency, and improve the drainage tunnel system to expedite water removal.

Governor Chatchart addressed concerns about his past role at Quality Houses Public Company Limited, clarifying that any objections to the project in the Phra Sin area were legal and that decisions are the BMA's responsibility. He noted that the project cancellation occurred under a previous governor, before his tenure.

He explained that effective flood control ponds require adequate water storage, intake, and drainage systems. With Khu Bon and Bang Chan swamps capable of holding about 1 million cubic meters, the focus is on a comprehensive drainage system to manage Bangkok's significant rainfall.

The BMA is open to new information and technical proposals that could inform their decisions, with the Drainage Department ready to assess any new data to find the best solutions, considering budget and public benefit.

For future development, the BMA plans to enhance the Nong Bon Reservoir, expand water intake channels, and develop a drainage tunnel system to ensure efficient water flow. Additionally, improvements to various canals will be made to optimize their function as water transport routes.