Transport Ministry Mobilizes Dredging Plan Against Songkhla Flooding

Deputy Transport Minister Sarapech Bunnyamani announced a comprehensive approach to flooding in Songkhla province following an on-site inspection of waterway problems. His team examined the Ko Lae Nang area in Thepla District and Sakhaom Canal in Jana District, consulting with local officials and residents on drainage challenges. The core problem in both areas is the silting of canals and waterways, which severely hampers drainage to the sea and causes recurring seasonal flooding that impacts boat navigation, traditional fishing, and community livelihoods.

Residents of Ko Lae Nang requested urgent dredging of Khlong Tuyang, where accumulated sediment worsens flooding and blocks waterways. Similarly, Sakhaom Canal residents called for clearing and deepening the canal to improve drainage capacity before the November rainy season. Sarapech ordered the Ports Authority to conduct depth surveys of both waterways and prepare detailed dredging plans aligned with on-ground conditions.

The government outlined a three-phased response: short-term urgent surveying and targeted emergency dredging; medium-term systematic dredging coordinated with improvements to drainage infrastructure; and long-term integrated water management planning for Songkhla province to prevent future silting and flooding. Sarapech emphasized that addressing flooding requires coordinated action across the Ports Authority, Irrigation Department, local administrative organizations, and environmental agencies.

In related developments, officials also inspected the Thepla truck rest area on Highway 43 in Thepla District, where water erosion has damaged the facility. The Highways Department and Ports Authority were tasked with developing restoration plans to ensure safety and enhance the rest area with CCTV cameras for better user protection and facility efficiency.