Flooded River Forces Students to Wade Through Strong Currents to Reach School in Mae Sariang

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

Rising water levels in the Mae Ngao River in Mae Sariang district, Mae Hong Son province, have made it impossible for vehicles to cross, forcing schoolchildren to wade through fast-flowing currents to return to school after a long weekend.

Mr Jaruwat Khongboonlap, village headman of Ban Mae Che, Moo 4, Sao Hin subdistrict, reported the flooding situation to the Mae Sariang district chief. Persistent rainfall has caused the Mae Ngao River to swell significantly, cutting off all vehicle access in several parts of the area. Landslides have also been reported, further obstructing routes.

Parents, local villagers and community leaders have stepped in to help. They guided students, who had been on a three-day school break, across a 50-metre stretch of the flooded river at Mae Che Pier. The children were on their way back to Ban Pho So School in Sao Hin, which is due to resume classes.

At nearby Mae Lue Pier, villagers from Mae Lue, along with local teachers and officers from the Border Patrol Police, worked together to transport school lunch supplies across the swollen river, ensuring that children would have food despite the disruption.

Meanwhile, district officials have coordinated with the Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) to deploy vehicles and heavy machinery to clear the blocked roads. Work is expected to begin within 2–3 days.

Residents have been urged to remain alert for potential flash floods and landslides and to monitor official updates for their safety.

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-07-30