Nonthaburi's riverfront community is on edge as a section of the Chao Phraya River flood barrier, which collapsed four months ago, remains unrepaired. Despite the Royal Irrigation Department (RID) erecting a temporary earthen dam, locals are sceptical of its efficacy against the looming monsoon season.

 

The 75-metre span of the barrier, located between Pak Khlong Bang Kruai watergate and Wat Lum Klongkharam in Bang Kruai district, crumbled into the river on 11 May. RID officials quickly assured residents of a prompt repair, promising it would be ready before the heavy rains arrived. Yet, over four months later, the damaged section remains untouched.

 

Yesterday, a reporter at the scene noted the absence of any reconstruction efforts, with only an earthen dam standing in place of the original barrier. This stopgap measure does little to ease the worries of the riverfront inhabitants.

 

Suthep Chanmuen, the head of the Chao Phraya Riverside Community, voiced his frustration. "The community suffers whenever the river swells. The barrier has multiple leaks, and the RID hasn't addressed them," he said. He advised fellow residents to stay vigilant and prepare to move valuables to higher ground.

 

 

 

 

Suthep criticised the RID's approach. "The temporary earthen dam appeared without any notice to us. Its effectiveness is doubtful—perhaps only 10 to 20%. The water doesn't just enter through that spot; it seeps in through the leaks. A permanent solution is needed."

 

Recollecting the Governor's promises following the barrier’s collapse, Suthep noted, "We were assured the repairs would be done in a month. It's been over four months, and there's nothing but this earthen dam."

 

With water expected to surge from the north, the temporary barrier's inadequacy adds to the residents' anxiety. The community remains on high alert, fearing their homes could soon be inundated if the promised permanent repairs are not swiftly undertaken.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-08-30

 

 

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12 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Nonthaburi's riverfront community is on edge as a section of the Chao Phraya River flood barrier, which collapsed four months ago, remains unrepaired. Despite the Royal Irrigation Department (RID) erecting a temporary earthen dam, locals are sceptical of its efficacy against the looming monsoon season.

Don't worry, the emergency rice and water packs are being prepared for you now...

Governor Chadchart might even deliver them himself.

How do we expect Thailand to move the capital of Bangkok promptly and effectively when they don't even make an effort to repair a flood barrier that has been damaged for four months putting locals in Nontaburi at risk? 

why not scrap the 10k vote buying and invest in... infrastructure ?