Former Deputy PM Advocates for Flood Diversion Canals Following Nan Flooding

Following recent severe flooding across multiple districts in Nan province, former Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Plodprasop Suraswadi has publicly reiterated his long-standing proposal for urban flood management. In a statement reported by Thai Post on August 20, 2026, Dr. Plodprasop argued that the only effective solution to prevent water from inundating city streets during heavy rainfall is the construction of dedicated flood diversion canals.

Dr. Plodprasop noted that he has advocated for this infrastructure for over a decade, claiming that similar plans were nearly implemented during the administration of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra before being halted by the 2014 coup. He emphasized that without such bypass systems, urban areas remain highly vulnerable when heavy rains cause water to overflow into streets and residential zones.

For residents and travelers, this highlights the ongoing challenges regarding flood mitigation in Northern Thailand. While the proposal focuses on long-term infrastructure, it underscores the recurring risk of flash floods in the region during the monsoon season. It remains to be confirmed whether the current government will consider new large-scale diversion projects or prioritize alternative flood management strategies. Travelers in affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports and follow guidance from provincial authorities, as infrastructure changes of this magnitude remain a subject of political debate rather than an enacted policy.