AoT to invest 50million THB in Don Mueang Airport flood defense system

BANGKOK, 7 February 2012 (NNT) – The Airports of Thailand (AoT) is confident that Don Mueang Airport will not suffer another round of flooding this year since THB50 million will be invested in the construction of a concrete wall around the airport.

AoT President Anirut Thanomkulbutra stated that Don Mueang Airport was forced to close down and sustained great damage last year due to the severe flood situation. Despite the large quantity of water that might flow into Bangkok this year, he insisted that the AoT will not allow the airport to become submerged under floodwater and have to close down again.

The AoT has prepared a budget of over THB50 million for the construction of a 3-meter high wall around the three sides of the airport. The AoT will also revamp the water management system of Don Mueang Airport for higher efficiency. Roads which lie to the north of the airport, including Chantarubeksa Road and Thupatemee Road, will be elevated to the height of over 3.50 meters to serve as another flood defense for the airport.

These measures are believed to be efficient in preventing the flood from reoccurring at Don Mueang Airport this year. Mr. Anirut stated that another round of flood would impact the general picture of the Thai economy and cause problem to air transportation.

Meanwhile, Don Mueang Airport Director Kanphat Mangkhlasiri disclosed that an income loss of THB50-60 million per month has been incurred since the airport closure four months ago, amounting to a total of THB200-300 million so far. In addition to the loss, the AoT is also obligated to cover the airport’s expenses, which average at around THB70 million per month.