CHIANG RAI, Thailand – The flood situation in Chiang Rai province remains critical as flash floods and landslides continue to impact several areas. Heavy rains have caused the Lao River to overflow in Wiang Pa Pao district, inundating villages and affecting around 30 households. Landslides have also blocked roads in Mae Chedi Mai subdistrict, although local authorities have since cleared the debris. Highway 118, a key route connecting Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, has been closed due to flooding in Pa Ngew village.
Chiang Rai Governor Puttipong Sirimat has coordinated efforts with local agencies and volunteers to clean up flood-hit areas, mainly focusing on vulnerable groups such as the elderly and disabled.
Flooding has also disrupted transport links, with the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) halting train services between Lampang and Chiang Mai due to landslides and flooding on the tracks. All northern-bound trains are currently terminating at Lampang station, with services reaching Chiang Mai only by bus.
Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation and provide assistance to affected residents as further heavy rainfall is expected in the coming days. (NNT)
