Government Assures No Repeat of 2011 Floods
The government has made a strong commitment to the public, assuring that there will be no recurrence of the devastating floods experienced in 2011. This assurance comes amid preparations for tropical storm Kalmaegi, which is expected to bring heavy rainfall to several regions of the country. The coordinated efforts of various agencies have been highlighted as key to managing water resources effectively.
Forecasted Rainfall and Storm Impact
Heavy rain is anticipated in the North, Northeast, and Central Plains until Sunday. As tropical storm Kalmaegi moves over Laos, it is expected to weaken to a tropical storm before reaching Ubon Ratchathani on Friday. The rainfall is predicted to range between 35-90mm across the North, Central Plains, East, South, and Greater Bangkok. These conditions require careful monitoring and management to prevent potential flooding.
Water Management Strategies
Agriculture Minister Thamanat Prompow emphasized during an inspection trip in Pathum Thani that the situation would not mirror the 2011 floods. He noted that water releases were being conducted according to plan under the supervision of the Royal Irrigation Department (RID). The minister also mentioned that relevant agencies under his ministry were instructed to accelerate water releases through the Chao Phraya dam. This action aims to create additional capacity for new inflows and reduce the impact on farmers and local communities.
Coordination with Key Agencies
Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon highlighted the importance of coordination among various agencies in managing water levels. He stated that water releases from the Bhumibol and Sirikit dams in the North were being carefully managed in collaboration with the Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR), the RID, and other relevant organizations.
Specific Measures at Bhumibol Dam
The Bhumibol dam, currently holding 13.2 billion cubic metres of water (98% of its capacity), is expected to receive an additional 400 million cubic metres from tropical storm Kalmaegi. To manage this influx, the dam’s daily discharge will increase to 30, 40, and 45 million cubic metres. This measure is intended to prevent water levels downstream from rising more than 20 centimetres, ensuring the safety of surrounding areas.
Ongoing Monitoring and Preparedness
The government’s proactive approach includes continuous monitoring of weather patterns and water levels. This ensures that any potential risks can be addressed promptly. The focus remains on maintaining the balance between water storage and release, which is crucial for both agricultural needs and flood prevention.
Conclusion
With the combined efforts of multiple agencies and a well-coordinated strategy, the government is working diligently to prevent another major flood. The emphasis on preparedness and effective water management reflects a commitment to safeguarding communities and ensuring the stability of the region’s water resources. As the situation evolves, ongoing communication and transparency will remain essential in keeping the public informed and safe.