Bueng Kan tightens Thailand-Laos pier safety as Mekong River rises

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Bueng Kan tightens Thailand-Laos pier safety as Mekong River rises

BUENGKAN, 7 August 2015 (NNT) – Marine Department officials in the northeastern province of Bueng Kan have tightened safety inspections of the Thailand-Laos pier, amid rising water levels in the Mekong River.

Water levels in the Mekong River have increased by another 20 cm to 12.1 m today, hitting a three-year high. Strong river currents were seen carrying wooden debris, possibly from riverside developments.

The situation has prompted Marine Department officials to carry out a survey of passenger vessels to examine their structural integrity. Helmsmen have been told not to overload their boats and to prepare enough life jackets for all passengers. Authorities said any pilot found without a license or proper life-saving equipment would be banned from boating operations.

Meanwhile, officials in Nong Khai province have warned residents along the Mekong River to remain on full alert for a possible overflow between August 8 and 9.


-- NNT 2015-08-07

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Northeastern provinces brace for more floods

BANGKOK, 7 August 2015 (NNT) - Northeastern provinces are bracing for more floods as the Mekong River threatens to breach embankments.

In Nong Khai, the water level of the Mekong River has been rising steadily to 11 meters and 38 centimeters and is expected to increase even further. Parts of agricultural land in the province have been inundated, causing grief to farmers, who were earlier hit by drought. Sluice gates have been closed and additional water pumps have been installed.

The river’s water level in Buengkarn is the highest in three years. Ferry operators have been warned to exercise extra caution and to prepare sufficient amount of life vests for passengers. Residents living near the river banks have been told to brace for floods during this weekend.

Overnight heavy rains in Sakon Nakhon have caused water from Bhupan mountain range to overflow into the Mekong River, flooding plantations in many districts. Around 6,000 rai of agricultural land have so far been damaged by the deluge.


-- NNT 2015-08-07