CHIANG RAI, Thailand – Chiang Rai Governor Charin Thongsuk visited flood-affected areas along the Sai River in Mae Sai district on April 29, following flash flooding caused by heavy upstream rainfall in Myanmar. The incident affected several communities, including Sai Lom Joi Market and the Mai Lung Khon community, after the river overflowed its banks earlier in the day. The water began to recede by early afternoon, and conditions had returned to normal by 2:20 p.m.
The flooding was triggered by more than 69 millimeters of rainfall upstream, which overwhelmed the river’s reduced capacity due to silt and sediment buildup from earlier floods. In response, the Royal Thai Army Corps of Engineers and the 37th Military Circle deployed large sandbags to reinforce vulnerable flood points and protect surrounding communities.
During his inspection, the governor raised concerns about unauthorized construction along the river, which has obstructed natural water flow and impeded dredging work. He called for cooperation from residents in removing illegal structures and reaffirmed plans to complete riverbank reinforcements and flood wall upgrades along the Sai River by June 20 to prevent future incidents.
Authorities also addressed legal and diplomatic concerns related to the flood response. Charin reminded local agencies that encroachment on the river is illegal and could also pose diplomatic issues with Myanmar. Instructions were issued for stricter enforcement of land-use regulations and the expansion of public awareness campaigns to prevent further obstruction of waterways.
Later in the day, Interior Ministry Spokesperson Traisulee Traisoranakul confirmed that Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul had been briefed and called for continuous monitoring and coordination among relevant agencies. The Spokesperson reported that no injuries or damage had been recorded but acknowledged lingering public concern due to the region’s history of severe flooding. Short-term measures include clearing drainage routes and collaborating with Myanmar through border affairs channels and the Thai-Myanmar Border Committee. Plans are also in place for future dredging of the Ruak River and long-term construction of permanent riverbank protection systems. (NNT)
