Chao Phraya 2 project is only long-term solution to flooding in Bangkok
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I do not know what personal problem Srisuwan Janya, president of the Stop Global Warming Association, might have had with Sukhumbhand Paribatra, the governor of Bangkok.
It seemed to me he was too quick to come out and lash the governor when Bangkok was flooded on June 23 by sending a letter to the Bangkok Metropolitan Council demanding the governor be sacked.
I am not writing to protect the governor, but I feel that it would be more appropriate for Srisuwan to join hands with Sukhumbhand in pushing the government to dust off the Chao Phraya 2 project, which could offer a long-term solution to our flooding woes.
The project, which was similar to His Majesty the King’s “kamling” (monkey cheek) concept, was to dig a canal almost the size of the present Chao Phraya (300 metres wide and 15m deep) running from Bang Sai in Nonthaburi towards the sea in Bang Khunthien, a distance of about 60 kilometres.
The Chao Phraya 2 canal can be empty during the dry season and can drain any excess rainwater or the runoff from the North.
It would help to equalise water levels and prevent the flooding of Thon Buri. It would also drain hundreds of hectares, which could be used for other purposes.
The completed feasibility study and report of the Chao Phraya 2 project is in the library of the Drainage and Sewage Department, and at the Asian Institute of Technology.
I hope Srisuwan will take the lead role in pushing the government to seriously revive the Chao Phraya 2 project.
It is the only long-term solution to this never ending problem.
Dusit Thammaraks
