BANGKOK — Authorities in the capital are ramping up flood protection measures as rising sea levels threaten low-lying zones along the Chao Phraya River, with heightened vigilance expected through Sunday. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is coordinating with multiple agencies, including the Royal Irrigation Department and the Royal Thai Navy, in an urgent bid to contain the threat.

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Jessada Chandraprabha, director of the Drainage and Sewerage Department, said the risk is being driven by high tides and saltwater intrusion, prompting daily inspections of flood barriers and drainage systems along the river and key canals such as Khlong Bangkok Noi, Khlong Mahasawt, and Khlong Phrakhanong.

While Bangkok’s permanent floodwalls stand between 2.8 and 3.5 metres above mean sea level, 32 vulnerable sections — dubbed “gapped barriers” — are yet to be completed. These gaps span 4.35 kilometres in total and are being temporarily reinforced with sandbags, which reach only 2.4 to 2.7 metres high.

Bangkok on alert as flood threat grows along Chao Phrayahttps://t.co/7duwITTCBE pic.twitter.com/VEgsJKymAr

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Jessada noted that 21 sections of permanent barriers, amounting to 2.58 kilometres, have been completed in strategic locations, including Si Phraya Pier in Bang Rak and Riverside Condo in Bang Kho Laem. Work is ongoing on four more segments in areas like Yannawa, Khlong Toei, and Bang Phlat, with completion targeted before the peak flood season in October. Proposals for seven more sections have been submitted, and budget planning is underway for five additional segments, covering areas in Dusit, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok Noi, Bang Phlat, and Rat Burana.

Adding to the concerns, the Thai Meteorological Department has warned of persistent heavy rain in the North due to a passing monsoon trough. The storm system increases the likelihood of flash floods and landslides in affected areas. Rainfall is expected to ease starting tomorrow and continue to taper off into next week, though isolated heavy showers may persist.

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The department also flagged hazardous sea conditions, with waves reaching up to two metres in storm-affected coastal zones. Residents in flood-prone and northern areas are being urged to stay alert, avoid risky travel routes, and prepare for weather-related disruptions. Farmers have also been advised to brace for potential crop damage from excess water or strong winds.

-Thailand News (TN)