Bangkok Governor Accelerates Flood Drainage on East Side
Bangkok's governor accelerated drainage efforts on the city's east side after heavy overnight rains, prioritizing the lowering of main canal water levels to enable faster runoff from roads and communities, while nearly 700,000 residents rem
At 8 a.m. on September 28 at the Bangkok Flood Control Center in Din Daeng District, Governor Chatcgai Sittipan monitored the flooding situation and relief efforts. He reported that rainfall in Bangkok has begun to ease after a low-pressure system moved away, resulting in less intense rain compared to the previous 2-3 days. However, intermittent rain continues due to the southwest monsoon influence, with overnight rainfall on the east side reaching 62 millimeters in Nong Chok, approximately 55 millimeters in Lat Krabang, and 52 millimeters in Minburi, adding more water to already flooded areas.
The governor stated that the current priority is to reduce water levels in main canals so that drainage from roads and communities can accelerate. While many areas show improvement, canals including Pravesburi, Lad Phrao, and some main canal sections still have elevated water levels due to receiving runoff from wider areas and overflow from outside Bangkok. Full-capacity pumping operations and water gate management are underway.
"Today we must work to lower water levels as much as possible," the governor said. "Once canal levels drop, we can draw water from roads and communities more effectively. Some areas may improve more slowly because we must proceed in sequence—first lowering canal water levels, then road water, and gradually draining water from communities."
Deputy Governor Vishnu Sapsompol reported that on the east side, particularly in Lat Krabang, Nong Chok, and Minburi, Bangkok continues aggressive drainage while coordinating with relevant agencies to increase drainage channels. Saen Saep and Pravesburi canals are being prioritized to push water out using additional pumps and equipment.
Transportation is improving, with Petchburi Road partially reopening and Vibhavadi Rangsit Road becoming increasingly passable, though some sections require caution. Bangkok urges residents to check road conditions before traveling.
Deputy Governor Twida Komlevet reported that approximately 329,000 households, or around 700,000 people, have been affected since flooding began. Areas with deep flooding and significant impact include Lat Krabang District (30,000-40,000 people), Bang Kapi District (20,000 people), and Khan Na Yao District (30,000-40,000 people). Saphan Sung, Suan Luang, and Lak Si districts also have affected residents, with Lak Si affected around 10,000 people.
Beyond drainage acceleration, the priority is caring for flood-affected residents, especially the elderly, bedridden patients, and those lacking food, drinking water, or unable to leave the area. Bangkok has already relocated approximately 1,500 bedridden and care-dependent patients to city hospitals. Teams monitor social media alongside official complaint channels; when residents request help online, officials verify location coordinates and dispatch response teams immediately. Residents with medical emergencies should call designated hotlines.
