Safety
Authorities Implement 'Fishbone' Drainage Plan to Protect Ayutthaya
Thai officials are deploying a 'fishbone' water management strategy to mitigate flood risks in the historic city of Ayutthaya as northern runoff increases.
According to a report by Thai Post on September 24, 2026, Paradorn has confirmed that authorities are accelerating the drainage of the Chao Phraya River to manage the influx of water arriving from Nakhon Sawan. While the current flood situation is described as stable, officials are preparing to implement a 'fishbone' drainage plan. This strategy involves diverting water toward the eastern and western sides of the river and channeling it into designated flood-receiving fields (kaem ling) to prevent the overflow from impacting the historic city of Ayutthaya.
For residents and travelers in the Ayutthaya region, this proactive measure is intended to minimize potential flood damage to the area's cultural sites and infrastructure. While the situation is currently under control, the effectiveness of this diversion strategy depends on the volume of incoming northern runoff and the capacity of the designated fields to absorb the excess water. Those planning to visit or reside in the area should monitor local news updates and follow instructions from provincial authorities, as the situation remains subject to change based on weather conditions and water management outcomes.