Economy
Government Allocates 843 Million Baht to Upgrade Southern Drainage Systems
The Thai government has approved 843 million baht in central budget funds to repair and improve drainage infrastructure in Hat Yai ahead of the heavy rainy season.
According to a report by Prachachat Business, Deputy Minister of Interior Songsak Thongsri recently joined the Prime Minister on an inspection tour of key water management sites in Hat Yai, including the Khlong Rian, Khlong U-Tapao, Khlong Wa, and Khlong R.1 canals. The visit follows the government's allocation of 843 million baht from the 2026 central budget to expedite repairs to the region's drainage systems.
This initiative is intended to mitigate flood risks in the Hat Yai area before the onset of heavy seasonal rainfall. Additionally, the Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) has announced a broader water management plan for Songkhla province for the current year, which encompasses 272 projects with a total budget exceeding 3.16 billion baht.
For residents and travelers, these infrastructure upgrades are significant as they aim to reduce the likelihood of seasonal flooding that often disrupts local transportation and daily activities in the southern region. While the government has prioritized these repairs, the timeline for the completion of specific canal works and their overall effectiveness during peak rainfall remains to be confirmed. Travelers planning trips to the southern provinces during the upcoming rainy season are advised to monitor local weather reports and official updates regarding potential infrastructure-related travel disruptions.