Marine Department Accelerates Waterway Dredging Project to Combat Flooding

Bangkok: The Marine Department is expediting its 'dredging and maintaining waterways' project following the rainy season, aiming to prevent nationwide flooding and enhance the sustainability of the agricultural sector. Monporn has directed the department to fast-track this initiative, revealing that over 82.62 million baht was saved in the first two quarters of the 68 fiscal year. According to Thai News Agency, Mrs. Manop Jareonsri, Deputy Minister of Transport, disclosed that under the 'Reciprocal Dredging' policy, the Marine Department has completed 49 projects, dredging a total of 3,001,303.22 cubic meters of materials in the first half of fiscal year 2025, from October 2024 to March 2025. The dredged materials, including gravel, rocks, soil, and sand, are being utilized for budget management, leading to significant cost savings of over 82.62 million baht. The directive also mandates the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources to have Regional Harbor Offices 1-7 expedite the project as the rainy seaso n approaches. The dredging of rivers and canals is designed to alleviate flooding in various regions across the country, increase water storage capacity for the dry season, and restore river and canal conditions for safe and convenient boat travel. This initiative not only serves as a drainage system for both secondary and main waterways but also supports sustainable agricultural practices. Ms. Manop emphasized the importance of the Provincial Administration closely monitoring the project's progress to ensure its completion within the fiscal year 2025.