Thai Government Calls for Better Coordination with China on Mekong Water Levels

On August 10, 2026, Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsri, who oversees the Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR), addressed preparations for potential flooding in Thailand's northeastern region. According to a report by Thai Post, Songsak stated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs must coordinate with China to request advance notice before water is released from upstream dams.

He identified these releases as a primary cause of the unnatural fluctuations in the Mekong River's water levels. As part of the government's flood management strategy, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has assigned specific deputy prime ministers to oversee water management in different regions, with Songsak responsible for the 20 provinces of the Northeast.

For residents and travelers in the Mekong basin, these fluctuations can impact river transport, local fishing, and riverside infrastructure. While the government is actively working on flood mitigation, the effectiveness of this diplomatic request remains to be seen. It is not yet confirmed how China will respond to this request or if a formal notification protocol will be established. Travelers in the region should monitor local news for updates on river conditions and potential flood warnings, as water levels in the Mekong can change rapidly due to both seasonal weather and upstream dam operations.