On February 21, 2026, Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, conducted an inspection of the progress on a vital flood protection project in the Rong Si community along Rama III Road in Yan Nawa District. This specific site has been identified as a critical “gap” in the city’s defense line along the Chao Phraya River, where the absence of a permanent dike has historically allowed water to inundate inner-city districts during high upstream flows and tidal surges. Utilizing funds from the 2026 fiscal budget, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is now urgently constructing a 300-meter permanent barrier to seal this vulnerability and ensure the long-term safety of residents in Yan Nawa and the surrounding areas.
A significant aspect of the project involves the BMA Drainage and Sewerage Department’s ongoing coordination with residents whose homes currently encroach upon the riverbank. These structures have previously hindered the establishment of a continuous dike, making it imperative to negotiate the relocation of these buildings to allow construction to proceed. Governor Chadchart has instructed officials to prioritize fair negotiations and active community engagement, ensuring that the project advances while minimizing negative impacts on the public. He emphasized that while the construction must be expedited to stay aligned with the timeframe, the process must remain transparent and compassionate.
To maintain safety during the construction phase, the BMA is implementing temporary measures to counter immediate flood risks. These include rigorous monitoring of water levels, strategic reinforcement of sandbag barriers, and installation of additional water pumps in high-risk zones. By addressing the structural impediments at the Rong Si community and replacing temporary defenses with a permanent dike, the BMA aims to significantly fortify Bangkok’s overall flood resilience. Governor Chadchart reiterated that closing this persistent gap is essential for the stability of the city’s infrastructure, providing a sustainable shield against the growing challenges of seasonal flooding and rising tides.
#FragmentBarrier #ChaoPhraya #BMA
