SONGKHLA, Thailand – Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul led a cabinet delegation to review flood management and drainage system upgrades at the Ban Na Khuan watergate on the Phuminat Damri Canal (R.1 drainage canal) in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province.
During the inspection, Royal Irrigation Department Director-General Wittaya Kaewmee updated the delegation on construction progress and the operational status of the water management system. The review focused on the ongoing dredging of Khlong Wa and on infrastructure readiness following recent budget approvals and directives aimed at reducing regional flood risks.
The visit focused on resolving bottlenecks in the local water distribution network, specifically how Khlong Wa manages runoff from Na Mom District and Khlong U-Taphao receives water from Sadao District before both flow into Hat Yai’s main drainage systems. Authorities emphasized that effective water management depends on keeping waterways clear of sediment, debris, and weeds to maximize flow into the R.1 drainage canal and prevent severe urban flooding.
In addition to dredging and structural upgrades, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of coordinated operations among the Royal Irrigation Department, the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning, and local administrative bodies. Key priorities include sharing meteorological data for timely public warnings, prepositioning emergency resources such as water pumps and evacuation shelters, and streamlining administrative procedures to ensure rapid disaster relief. (NNT)
