Sudarat Warns Bangkok Flood Plan Risks Chronic Inundation
Sudarat Keyuraphan warned that Bangkok’s revised urban plan, which slashes flood‑water storage zones, will lead to chronic flooding. She urged officials to restore the Monkey Cheeks basins and Flood Way as prescribed by royal initiatives, arguing that canals and tunnels cannot replace them. The former deputy interior minister called for a fair review and correction of the plan during ongoing public consultation.
Sudarat Keyuraphan noted her role in implementing the royal Monkey Cheeks initiative during her tenure as deputy interior minister, stressing that these basins and the Flood Way are essential for temporary water storage during heavy rains or sea surges. She argued that expanding canals and building giant tunnels cannot replace the storage function of Monkey Cheeks, which act like water bottles, while canals and tunnels serve only as straws to move water out. The former minister warned that without adequate flood‑water storage, inundation will spread into villages and communities, as already seen in areas such as Khok Rae and Chan. She called on the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to reinstate the full Monkey Cheeks network and Flood Way in accordance with the late King Bhumibol’s royal guidance, and urged Governor Chatchart to correct the plan during the ongoing public consultation process.
