Government Sets Up Flood Command Center For 24-Hour Response
The government established a 24-hour flood command center to coordinate emergency response across transport agencies, deploying buses and high-clearance vehicles to assist residents in flooded areas across 22 provinces.
On September 26, Deputy Government Spokesman Ploytalay Laksameesangchan announced that Deputy Prime Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn has established an Emergency Flood Operations War Room to serve as a unified command center, coordinate information, and integrate resources from all transport agencies under the Ministry of Transport. The center will operate around the clock to provide rapid and systematic assistance to flood-affected residents.
The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) has deployed approximately 20 buses to transport residents from flooded areas to safe zones at no cost. Of the authority's 2,883 total buses, 1,216 vehicles (42%) are operational; the remainder have been sidelined due to high water levels affecting routes like Lamsali–Ladprao and Bang Kae, with two depots relocating nearly 200 buses to safe areas.
The Department of Rural Roads has mobilized 10 high-clearance vehicles from Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, and central depots to reach areas inaccessible to standard transit. Meanwhile, the Department of Highways reports that as of 2 p.m., flooding has affected 172 locations across 85 routes in 22 provinces. Close monitoring continues in Bangkok and vicinity, particularly in Rangsit, Don Muang–Vibhavadi Rangsit, and Srinakarin. The department is clearing drainage obstructions at three construction sites to improve water outflow.
The Expressway Authority of Thailand has suspended toll collection from 3 p.m. on September 26 through midnight on September 27, with further extension possible depending on conditions. Residents are advised to verify exit conditions before traveling, as some ramps remain inaccessible due to flooding. The Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS) is also opening buildings and parking areas for public use.