New canal aims to curb floodsThe Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) plans to begin construction of the Chai Nat-Gulf of Thailand Flood Diversion Canal in 2027, in an effort to tackle chronic flooding across the lower Chao Phraya River basin -- one of the country's most economically vital regions. They inspected critical infrastructure points, including the Chai Nat–Pa Sak canal gate and the Manorom water gate in Chai Nat, before continuing to the Rama VI Dam in Ayutthaya. Mr Chayan emphasised the urgency of addressing persistent flooding in the Chao Phraya basin, where seasonal water surges often exceed the river's capacity. The diversion canal project has already been approved by the National Water Resources Committee and passed its Environmental Impact Assessment, thus clearing key regulatory hurdles. It is also a central component of a broader nine-part flood mitigation master plan for the lower basin.

Source: Bangkok Post March 27, 2026 09:06 UTC