Cabinet Approves 14.7 Billion Baht Flood Relief Plan for Phetchaburi
Thailand's Cabinet approved a 14.7 billion baht flood mitigation project for Phetchaburi province to be completed over ten years, involving 39 kilometers of upgraded drainage canals from the local dam to the Gulf of Thailand.
The Cabinet has approved a 14.7 billion baht flood mitigation project for the lower Phetchaburi River basin, to be implemented over 10 years (fiscal years 2027–2036) to permanently solve flooding in Phetchaburi city. Deputy Government Spokesperson Phattharadarsami Thongsluaykorn announced that the Cabinet endorsed the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, through the Royal Irrigation Department, to carry out the "Lower Phetchaburi River Basin Flood Mitigation Project Based on the Royal Initiative," with a total budget of 14.7 billion baht over the 10-year period. The project includes upgrading and excavating new drainage canals totaling 38.92 kilometers, running from above Phetchaburi Dam in Tha Yang district to a discharge point into the Gulf of Thailand in Cha-am district, Phetchaburi province. This will enhance water drainage capacity to the gulf, increase water sources, and reduce flood damage affecting over 33,690 rai. However, because the drainage outlet must pass through approximately 162 rai of mangrove forest, the Cabinet approved an exemption to existing restrictions on mangrove use, with the condition that relevant agencies implement strict environmental measures and monitor ecosystem impacts. The Cabinet also directed the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives to accelerate land acquisition processes, ensure fair compensation payments, and foster community participation to achieve project targets and maximize public benefit.
