Many areas in Nan province have been severely impacted by floods, with the mayor of Nan municipality declaring them the worst seen in a century. The Nan Provincial Public Relations Office has highlighted the extent of the devastation.
In response, the Fine Arts Department has unveiled measures to shield Sukhothai Historical Park from the rising waters. They also confirmed that the renowned mural painting at Wat Phumin in Nan remains unharmed. The department’s Chiang Mai office staff have been diligently overseeing the flood situation at various historical sites throughout the northern region, especially in Nan province.
The flooding has deluged several parts of Nan, notably the Muang district, home to numerous temples and significant historical landmarks. Affected sites include Wat Phumin, Wat Phra That Chang Kham Worawihan, Wat Hua Khuang, Wat Ming Muang, Nan City Weekend Night Market, Khum Chao Ratchabut, and Wat Ku Kham, according to department sources.
Despite the widespread water damage, officials reassured that the Pu Man Ya Man mural painting at Wat Phumin and the Buddha relics at Wat Phra That Chang Kham Worawihan have not been compromised. Water levels at these historical sites have remained stable, as stated by Therdsak Yenjura, director of the Archaeological Conservation Office at the department’s Chiang Mai branch.
Nevertheless, Therdsak expressed concern that persistent flooding might cause soil subsidence, potentially endangering the structural integrity of the temples. Surapon Thiansoot, the mayor of Nan municipality, has emphasized the unprecedented nature of the current flood, with the Nan River’s water level peaking at an astonishing 8.72 meters, surpassing the 8.42-meter mark recorded in 2006.
The Royal Irrigation Department cautioned on its Facebook page that the overflow of the Yom River in Phrae would soon affect Sukhothai. Muang district in Phrae has already experienced severe flooding, prompting the closure of critical locations including police stations, the provincial hall, government offices, and schools.
To mitigate further flooding, the department plans to redirect water from the Yom River to Talay Luang Lake before it can reach the Ban Hat Saphan Chan floodgate, aiming to prevent it from encroaching upon Muang district in Sukhothai. Therdsak assured that Sukhothai Historical Park would be safeguarded using flood prevention standards, employing dykes and sandbags to protect the area.
It’s unbelievable that we’re seeing such severe floods in Nan. Definitely concerning for the historical sites!
The authorities say they’re taking measures, but I wonder how effective they’ll be. Water can be pretty unforgiving.
True, Alex. But the fact that the murals and Buddha relics are safe for now is at least some good news.
We should trust the experts, they’ve handled such situations before.
Doesn’t anyone care about modern infrastructure too? It’s not just about old temples.
What’s more worrying is the potential soil subsidence. That could lead to catastrophic damage to ancient structures.
Absolutely, Tom. Structural integrity is key. Constant monitoring is crucial.
Preservation of these sites should be a priority. Their loss would be irreplaceable!
Redirecting the Yom River is a brilliant move! It shows proactive thinking from the authorities.
But what about environmental impacts of such redirection? There could be unforeseen consequences.
Exactly, Ronald! Messing with natural water courses can have dire repercussions.
Glad to hear the Sukhothai Historical Park is being protected. It’s one of my favorite places to visit!
Marta, it’s a beautiful place, isn’t it? Hope the measures are enough.
Fingers crossed, Joe. Nature can be so unpredictable.
What about the local residents and their homes? Any word on the government’s support for them?
Good point, Vicky. The human impact often gets overshadowed by concerns for historical sites.
Historical significance aside, we need to invest in better flood management technology. It’s the 21st century!
Absolutely! Investment in modern infrastructure is a must.
We need a balance of preserving history and advancing with current tech.
Did anyone look into the causes of these floods? Climate change, perhaps?
Glad you brought that up, Sam. These abnormal weather patterns are indeed signs of climate change.
Oh, come on! It’s just an unusual weather event. Don’t blame everything on climate change.
The preservation of historical art and relics in natural disasters should be a global effort!
Has there been any news about the local wildlife? The floods must have impacted them too.
Exactly, Elle! Often the silent victims, wildlife suffers greatly in such disasters.
I’m amazed that Wat Phumin’s mural painting is still unharmed. Shows how well-preserved it is!
The high water level in Nan River is shocking. Do you think this will become the norm in the future?
Hopefully not, Melanie. But with current climate trends, anything is possible.
The effort taken to protect historical sites is impressive. But isn’t it worrying that we have to go to such lengths now?
The closure of schools and government offices is a big deal. How long will it take for life to return to normal?
It breaks my heart to see these ancient sites at risk. They carry so much history and culture.
I heard the Fine Arts Department is usually quick to act. Let’s hope they can work their magic here too!