Bangkok: Governor Chadchart confirmed that Bangkok’s water situation is not critical, despite high dam levels. He emphasized the need to monitor high tides on October 10-11.
According to Thai News Agency, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt revealed the water situation in Bangkok during a visit to the Phra Khanong pumping station, a key location in flood response efforts. He was joined by Deputy Governor Wisanu Traisompol, Director of the Drainage and Sewerage Department Jessada Chantraprapa, and other relevant officials. He noted that the overall water situation in previously severely affected areas is improving, particularly in Prawet District, where the highest rainfall of 122 millimeters was recorded. However, ongoing flood management in smaller alleys is still required.
The water situation in the North is not yet worrisome and not at a critical level. Although water levels in the main dams are relatively high, water management this year is significantly better than in 2011. The amount of water released is still lower than in 2011. The Kwai Noi Dam is now full, the Sirikit Dam is nearly full, and the Bhumibol Dam also has plenty of water. The amount of water released is approximately 2,500 cubic meters per second, which is still within the acceptable capacity of 3,500 cubic meters per second.
The water drainage at Phra Khanong Pumping Station is currently at -1 meter above mean sea level. However, the problem is that water from Prawet Canal cannot flow quickly enough due to its winding course, causing the water level above to remain overflowing. In the future, a drainage tunnel may need to be considered. However, the completion of the Nong Bon Tunnel, scheduled to open next year, will significantly improve drainage.
Governor Chadchart stated that the main concern is high tides, which are expected to peak on October 10 and 11, 2025. There will be two daily tide surges: around 9:00 AM in the morning and around 7:00 PM in the evening. He emphasized that the public generally does not need to be concerned, but urged those living along the riverbanks and outside the embankments to exercise extra caution, such as in the Rongsi Thewarat Kunchorn community and other waterfront areas. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has reinforced sandbags and installed wooden walkways for public use.
Deputy Governor Wisanu added that several projects have been implemented in the Phra Khanong and Prawet areas, including increasing the depth in front of the Phra Khanong pumping station and building a new dam to improve water capacity.
Governor Chadchart said that the construction of floodgates in minor canals, which villagers had opposed, was a pity, as floodgates would have improved water control efficiency.
“The situation is not worrisome. The Drainage and Sewerage Office is working tirelessly, 24/7, because flooding never stops. Therefore, officials are not allowed to take a break. The rainy season is almost over and the dust season is upon us. We must prepare for the dust. If any areas are still flooded, please notify us so officials can assist,” Governor Chadchart concluded.
Then, we visited Seri-On Nut Village in Prawet District after being notified of the flooding situation via a live broadcast. Mr. Ruangsak Saisingthong, Director of Prawet District, and other relevant personnel were present. The village’s main road is dry, but flooding remains in the smaller, herringbone-shaped alleys. Additionally, equipment issues have been identified. Last night, only one of the two water pumps was able to function due to a malfunction. However, the damaged pump has been repaired, and today, a mobile pump was deployed to help pump water out of the area.
On this occasion, Governor Chadchart spoke with local residents about drainage problems and ordered the district director to inspect the overall drainage system and pipe connections in the alleys to find solutions.