BANGKOK, Thailand – Governor Chadchart Sittipunt is leading a proactive campaign to unclog the city’s drainage pipes in preparation for the upcoming rainy season.
On March 5, he inspected the progress of the “Anti-Clogging Fat Operation” in the Talat Phlu area, a known hotspot for drainage issues.
The city aims to clear nearly 4,000 kilometers of pipes by May 2025, ensuring they are fully functional before the heavy rains arrive. So far, about 50% of the work has been completed.
A major culprit behind clogged pipes is grease discharged from restaurants. Governor Chatchart emphasized that many restaurants fail to properly filter grease before releasing wastewater into the drainage system. He warned that businesses violating regulations will face strict enforcement, including potential fines and even imprisonment.
Under the Public Health Act, restaurants are required to install grease traps. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) will be stepping up inspections in the coming months to ensure compliance.
The BMA is also working to clean major drainage tunnels, complementing the pipe-clearing initiative. Governor Chadchart stressed that flood prevention is a year-round effort for the city, with ongoing maintenance and cleaning of its extensive drainage network. (TNA)
