BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsri has ordered nationwide field inspections to assess water conditions and prepare for the coming dry season. The directive tasks the Office of the National Water Resources and related agencies with evaluating water volumes and storage capacity across key areas.
Officials will conduct on-site reviews to determine whether reservoirs and other sources can meet demand. The effort is set to provide a clearer picture of available resources and identify areas that may require additional support.
The administration is also preparing for both flooding and drought, with plans to expand designated water retention areas known as “monkey cheek” zones. These areas temporarily store excess water during the rainy season, reducing the risk of overflow into farmland and residential areas.
Officials said the stored water can later be used during dry periods, helping balance supply across seasons, improving long-term water management, and reducing the impact of extreme weather on communities. (NNT)
