The government plans to revive a 200-billion-baht water management project in the Yom River basin, including reconsidering the construction of the controversial Kaeng Sua Ten Dam. The proposal, initially put forward over a decade ago by the Yingluck Shinawatra administration, was halted by a political conflict in 2014. The project is intended to mitigate severe flooding in the North, where the Yom River frequently overflows, affecting provinces such as Phrae and Sukhothai.
The plan’s revival comes after heavy rains in August caused severe flooding, damaged properties, and raised concerns over the region’s flood defenses. Local authorities are debating the necessity of the Kaeng Sua Ten Dam in Phrae, which proponents argue could prevent future disasters. However, critics question the environmental and social impacts, stressing the need for updated studies before moving forward.
Some officials suggest alternative solutions, such as improving existing flood barriers and water diversion systems, while others push for large-scale infrastructure, such as dams, to manage the Yom River’s flow. The debate continues as the government considers making water management a national priority. (NNT)
