Ayutthaya, Former Thai Capital, Besieged Again -- By Water

[george]

Ayutthaya, former Thai capital, besieged again -- by water

AYUTTHAYA: -- The flood in Ayutthaya, former capital of Thailand some 80 kilometres north of Bangkok, has put Thailand's pre-eminent historical centre in a state of siege--not by a foreign power but by the forces of nature.

Many of its historical sites have been flooded, besieged by a new foe, the river that has historically been its friend and protector. But now the elements of nature are out of control. The river which annually brings life with its flood-fed rising waters is bringing the threat of death and destruction. There is too much water with no place to go.

Ayutthaya, the kingdom's historic second capital, was established in 1350 and destroyed after a year-long siege by a foreign army in 1767.

Twenty-six of Ayutthaya historical park's 547 historical sites are now underwater. Some of the flooded sites are believed to host ancient communities dating back to before the establishment of Ayutthaya itself.

Some of the most important architectural sites are tourist attractions which underwent thorough restoration some five years ago.

Other central provinces are hit by flood, including Phichit, Nakhon Sawan and Sing Buri. Thousands of acres of paddy fields and orchards are underwater. Some areas are without electricity: lamps, candles and driinking water are in great demand.

All public agencies are cooperating to bring material relief and hope to relieve the suffering of the region's flood-bound residents.

--TNA 2006-10-18

[Michael W]

Was the King ordering the overflow from the Chao Phraya River diverted to Ayutthaya a major factor in this?

[Jai Dee]

The Culture Ministry requests a 181-million-baht budget to revamp historical sites

The Culture Minister, Khunying Khaisri Sri-arun (ไขศรี ศรีอรุณ), has requested a budget of 181 million baht from the government for the restoration of historical sites in Ayutthaya Province.

Khunying Khaisri disclosed that the current flood situation has damaged more than 36 historical structures in Ayutthaya and nearby provinces including Sing Buri(สิงห์บุรี) and Angthong (อ่างทอง). Restoration is estimated at 181 million baht. According to the Minister, the current flooding has put 22 historical sites in Ayutthaya in a worrying state.

However, the ministry has asked the government to put first priority to the assistance of people affected by floods.

Khunying Khaisri said the ministry did not submit a flood prevention plan for Ayutthaya to the Cabinet for consideration as she thought such a plan is already in existence.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 20 October 2006

[Jai Dee]

The Ministry of Culture asks for a budget to fix 36 ancient remains in Ayutthaya and its neighbor provinces

Lady Khaisri Sriarun (ไขศรี ศรีอรุณ), the Minister of Culture, said the Ministry of Culture had reported the damage of the ancient remains in Ayutthaya, Ang Thong and Sing Buri provinces to the Cabinet meeting. She said however the requested allocation of 181 million baht for the restoration of those sites is still under consideration as the government has to give priority to people affected by inundations.

There are 36 historical sites in those provinces needing rehabilitation.

Meanwhile, Mr. Preecha Gunthiya (ปรีชา กันธิยะ), Director-General of the Religious Affairs Department, said he has assigned the provincial Culture and Buddhism offices to survey the damage of all affected religious sites.

Latest reports showed that more than 900 monasteries have been damaged and necessary budgets for repairs have risen to about 200-300 million baht.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 20 October 2006