Bangkok: The Committee for Monitoring and Driving Royal Development Projects has announced the upcoming event, "Rivers of Life Under His Majesty's Patronage: Continuing the Rattanakosin Tradition," scheduled to take place from July 24-31. The event aims to honor His Majesty the King with a series of activities, including a historic merit-making ceremony involving offering alms to monks by boat.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Kanokporn Rodrungruang, Secretary of the Committee for Monitoring and Driving Royal Projects under His Majesty the King's Royal Policy, recently led a group of journalists on a boat tour to survey the readiness of various canals and landmarks around Bangkok. The journey began at Phra Sumen Pier, traversing the historic Khlong Bang Lamphu, and concluded at Wat Saket Ratchaworawihan, highlighting the continuous development projects that have rejuvenated these areas over the past decade.
The tour continued along Khlong Maha Nak and Khlong Saen Saep, canals with historical significance dating back to the reign of King Rama III. These waterways, originally constructed for strategic purposes during the Thai-Vietnamese-Annam-Siam War, now serve as vital transportation routes. The group visited Wat Borom Niwat Ratchaworawihan, a temple renowned for its Western-influenced murals by artist Khrua Inkhong, and its role as a Vipassana meditation center.
Further exploration took the media group to Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem, an important transportation route established during King Rama IV's reign. Today, electric passenger boats operate here, connecting key areas of the city. The journey also covered Khlong Prem Prachakorn, a canal built during King Rama V's reign to enhance agricultural development and streamline navigation along the Chao Phraya River.
In recent years, His Majesty the King has launched initiatives to restore these waterways, addressing pollution and overcrowding to improve the quality of life for nearby communities. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Mr. Atthapol Rerkpiboon has been appointed as chairman to oversee these royal projects, ensuring collaboration across government, royal, and private sectors.
The event will take place at Pom Mahakan Public Park and along several historic canals, coinciding with His Majesty the King's birthday on July 28. It will feature various activities, including a unique merit-making ceremony by boat on July 26, with 225 monks participating. Additional highlights include a candle-lighting ceremony, cultural performances, and local food offerings.
The event aims to celebrate His Majesty's contributions to water resource management and cultural heritage preservation while promoting sustainable community development. Activities will educate attendees on the history and significance of Rattanakosin Island, encouraging collective efforts to safeguard Bangkok's waterways for future generations.