Water pumps sitting idle by the river
I notice there is an ongoing argument between the BMA and the Irrigation Department over pumps.
I live in Bang Phlat, about 20 metres from the river and behind a floodwall, near Krungthon Bridge.
This morning, after completion of my wade through filthy, foetid, stagnant water to the dry area on the bridge, I noticed that the level of water on the landside of the wall was below the level of the river – Pascal’s principle notwithstanding.
Now along this section of floodwall are two permanent pumps sitting idle. Would it not be possible for the BMA to switch on these pumps and drain some of the water into the river? There are also another two idle pumps situated due south between Krungthon and the Riverside Hotel.
I realise the powers that be are very busy and more water will replace the water moved by the pumps, but at least the water will be moving and will lessen the risk of disease. Also it would do wonders for morale.
I wonder how many other pumps are sitting idle that could be used to expel water into the river and thus out to sea now that the tides are low. Every opportunity to send water out to sea should be used. Now that conditions are favourable there is a chance to bleed the floods on their eastern flank and relieve pressure on the inner areas of Thon Buri.
‘Abandoned in Stalingrad on Chao Phraya’
