Phitsanulok:Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, visited Phitsanulok Province to assess and expedite the development of irrigation systems aimed at resolving flooding and drought issues in two lowland areas.

According to Thai News Agency, the minister, along with his delegation, including Mr. Witthaya Kaewmee, Director-General of the Royal Irrigation Department, and other officials, reviewed water management strategies in the Thung Thale Kaeo area of Tha Thong Subdistrict, Mueang Phitsanulok District, and the Thung San sluice gate in Hok Long Subdistrict, Phrom Phiram District.

In the Thung Talay Kaeo lowland area, the Royal Irrigation Department has proposed a comprehensive plan for drainage system improvements. This includes the excavation of new drainage canals, the establishment of electric pumping stations, and the enhancement of existing canal structures to increase drainage efficiency and mitigate flooding impacts.

For the Thung San area, efforts are focused on advancing the Thung San sluice gate project, including related structures and the Khlong Nong Tom sluice gate project. These developments aim to improve drainage efficiency for low-lying areas, addressing both flooding and drought concerns. The Thung San sluice gate will enable drainage of 36 cubic meters per second, supported by an electric pumping station to efficiently manage water delivery and drainage for approximately 20,000 rai of farmland.

Mr. Suriya has directed the Royal Irrigation Department and other related agencies to accelerate project completion, monitor progress closely, and report to provincial authorities to ensure timely problem resolution. He has also called for the removal of obstructions in waterways, dredging of canals, and enhancement of sluice gates.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives remains dedicated to supporting water management initiatives to alleviate public hardship, reduce flood risks, enhance water security for agriculture, and support farmers' long-term livelihoods.