It’s that time of the year again in Bangkok when the skies turn a moody gray, the winds pick up a flirtatious dance, and the rain, well, it’s relentless. It transforms streets into waterways and sidewalks into riverside walks. But fear not, for the guardians of the city’s waterways, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), are on a mission — a mission to keep the city dry and walkable, despite the sky’s watery temper tantrums.
Leading the charge against the seasonal deluge is none other than the valiant Department of Drainage and Sewerage (DDS), in a gallant alliance with every district office within the city’s bounds. Their noble quest? To dredge a staggering 217.93 kilometers of canals crisscrossing the metropolis. Deputy Bangkok governor, Wisanu Subsompon, shared this epic saga with the world, marking a tale of ambition and determination. So far, they’ve carved their way through about 43% of their target, achieving a remarkable milestone of dredging nearly 93.65 km of canals. That’s no small feat!
But wait, there’s more! The DDS, ever ambitious, has laid out a grand plan for the fiscal year 2024. Their eagles have set sights on 19 more canals, stretching over 79.07 km, not to mention the additional 45.20 km that district offices will tackle. The goal? To finish this Herculean task by May, right before the rain gods decide to test the city’s resilience once more.
Mr. Wisanu, in between coordinating this monumental effort, also shared insights into another battlefront — the war against clogged drainage systems. With a target of dredging a mind-boggling 1,965 km of drainage, the BMA hopes to leave no stone unturned, or rather, no drain clogged. About 60% of this daunting task is already in the bag, with the final victory expected to be declared next month.
This isn’t just about fighting floods, though. It’s about a vision for a more efficient water management system across Bangkok. The fruits of these labors will extend beyond just dry streets post-monsoon. They’re paving the way for improved drainage systems on Rama VI and Si Ayutthaya roads, along with a makeover for the system cuddling Si Burapha Road in the Bang Kapi district. It’s a symphony of urban planning, civil engineering, and collective effort playing out in the heart of Thailand’s bustling capital.
So, as the city gears up for the rainy season, with its canals being meticulously dredged and its drains being unclogged, there’s a sense of anticipation in the air. The BMA’s endeavors are more than just maintenance – they’re an ode to resilience, a tribute to the spirit of Bangkok that refuses to bow down to Mother Nature’s temper. So, here’s to dry feet, safe travels, and the relentless spirit of a city that’s always ready to tackle whatever the clouds throw its way!
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