BANGKOK, 6 August 2012 – The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is preparing to amend its budget policy for flood prevention across Bangkok, aiming to increase the budget by twofold.
Bangkok Governor M.R. Sukhumbhand Paribatra revealed after a visit to Saen Saeb Canal that the canal’s capacity to drain water is currently at a good level. There is only a small amount of water hyacinth and weeds in the canal. The Rama 9 Pumping Station, which drains water from Ladprao and Saen Saeb Canals into the Chao Phraya River, is also in good condition and ready for operation.
Deputy Bangkok Governor Teerachon Manomaiphibul stated that many areas in Bangkok were heavily affected during the flood crisis in 2011. Therefore, he revealed that during the upcoming consideration of the 2013 budget, the BMA will ask the government to double the budget for flood prevention in all 50 districts of Bangkok from 75.1 million to 150.2 million baht.
According to the proposal, 18 districts will receive a budget of 2.4 million baht instead of 1.2 million baht, including Phra Nakhon, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Samphanthawong, Bang Rak, Pathum Wan, Yan Nawa, Huai Khwang, Phra Khanong, Khlong San, Bangkok Yai, Rat Burana, Sathon, Ratchathewi, Khan Na Yao, Saphan Sung, Watthana, Thawi Watthana, and Phaya Thai.
3 million baht, instead of 1.5 million baht, will be given to 21 others, including Dusit, Bang Kapi, Min Buri, Thon Buri, Bangkok Noi, Taling Chan, Phasi Charoen, Nong Khaem, Lat Phrao, Bueng Kum, Bang Kho Laem, Khlong Toei, Prawet, Bang Phlat, Din Daeng, Suan Luang, Lak Si, Wang Thonglang, Bang Na, Bang Bon, and Thung Khru.
Meanwhile, the other 11 districts severely hit by last year’s flood will receive 4 million instead of 2 million baht. They comprise Lat Krabang, Chatuchak, Bang Sue, Bang Khun Thian, Bang Khae, Khlong Sam Wa, Sai Mai, Don Mueang, Chom Thong, and Nong Chok.
