BANGKOK, Aug 18 — Prime Minister Yingluck Shinwatra thanked the public and private sectors for assistance in dredging canals while expressed worry over the water situation, as deforestation persisted.
The prime minister said during the “Yingluck Government meets the People” programme broadcast via Radio Thailand of the Public Relations Department, that dykes and water sluice gates in Bangkok that were damaged during the massive flood last year have all been repaired.
The programme this Saturday was recorded on Friday during the premier visit Khlong Sam Wa in Pathum Thani to inspect the dredging.
The dredging work to allow more effective flow of water in canals has been completed, she said, adding that CCTV cameras were installed at Khlong Sam Wa to monitor the water level situation and will be expanded to other major canals.
Ms Yingluck said the government has requested cooperation from communities and the private sector to help take care of the canals, with one company per canal.
Under the pilot project, 277 companies have taken part in caring for 307 canals, she said.
The premier also proposed a water inspector project, as inspectors would be assigned to help monitor canals.
However, she expressed worry over deforestation in upstream areas and stated that reforestation project should be continued.
