Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

A 25-year-old security guard experienced a harrowing ordeal after becoming trapped in floodwaters in Samut Prakan, Thailand, on Sunday night.

 

The incident unfolded around 9pm, along the rain-soaked Sriwareenoi Road in Bang Chalong. Local police at the Phra Nakhon radio centre received an urgent call for help and swiftly coordinated with the Ruamkatanyu Foundation rescue team.

 

Rescuers were greeted by a distressing sight: Mr Komwisan, drenched and shivering, sat on the curb with his left leg firmly lodged in a drain grating. Heavy rain had transformed the road into a watery hazard, with floodwaters surging around him, concealing the dangers lurking beneath.

 

Mr Komwisan had just finished his night shift as a security guard. Alongside a friend, he ventured into the rain to grab some food from a nearby convenience store. As they navigated the flood-stricken streets, the hidden danger of a broken drain cover caught them unawares. Unwittingly, Mr Komwisan stepped directly onto it, resulting in his leg plunging through the gap.

 

Quick thinking from his friend led to the emergency call, prompting a focused and timely rescue operation. Arriving on the scene, the rescuers faced the challenge of freeing Mr Komwisan's trapped limb. A hydraulic jack was employed to force open the drain cover, allowing his leg to be carefully extricated.

 

Once freed, Mr Komwisan received immediate first aid from the on-site rescue team. Despite the ordeal, he remained remarkably calm, his primary concern being his injured leg. He was soon transported to Bang Phli Hospital for further treatment, with doctors ensuring that no lasting damage had been done.

 

The incident has highlighted the danger of treacherous conditions created by heavy rainfalls in urban areas, where ageing infrastructure poses risks to unsuspecting pedestrians. Broken and unsecured drain covers, often hidden by floodwaters, can quickly turn a seemingly simple walk into a life-threatening situation.

 

Local authorities have pledged to investigate the safety of the drainage systems across Samut Prakan. Ensuring that these hazards are promptly addressed is critical in preventing similar incidents. Attention has also been drawn to the need for improved urban planning and flood management strategies in flood-prone areas.

 

Public reactions have been mixed, with a surge of support for Mr Komwisan. Social media channels lit up with messages of relief over his successful rescue. Many voiced concern over the underlying infrastructure issues, urging authorities to prioritise repairs and maintenance.

 

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the vulnerability faced by individuals amidst severe weather conditions. The prompt response and coordinated effort of the rescue team were key in averting a potential tragedy, but the event underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and preparedness.

 

As Mr Komwisan recovers, the community is reminded of the collective responsibility to address and rectify the challenges posed by inclement weather and ageing infrastructure, ensuring safety for all in the face of nature's unpredictability.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-09-08

 

 

So, heavy rain got him trapped. Not that the drain gate was broken.