Bangkok:Authorities have been urged to clear the canals and waterways in Bangkok within 24 hours to accommodate water flowing from upstream sources. The public has been advised to prepare for potential flooding.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Suradej Yasawat, an independent politician and former deputy leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, emphasized the importance of immediate action to manage the floodwaters approaching Bangkok from northern regions. He highlighted that the water flow originates from accumulated rainwater and runoff in the mountains, channeling through major rivers like the Ping, Wang, Yom, and Nan into the Chao Phraya River.

Mr. Suradech detailed that managing upstream water involves draining and leveling water levels in advance to create reservoirs and mitigate downstream flooding. This includes a phased strategy for releasing water from dams and lowering levels in canals before heavy rains. Coordination with the Royal Irrigation Department and public warnings are crucial for timely responses.

He also proposed long-term solutions, focusing on addressing deforestation as a root cause of flooding. Increasing forest areas can help slow water flow and reduce flood severity. Innovative methods such as using drones for rapid reforestation were suggested to restore forest cover efficiently. Mr. Suradech called for the government to prioritize the flood issue as a national concern to ensure sustainable solutions.