Pathum Thani:The government has mobilized three agencies to expedite the drainage of canals in Pathum Thani, aiming to clear all floodwaters by mid-November.
According to Thai News Agency, Lieutenant Colonel Patthadarasmi Thongsalooykorn, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, discussed efforts to tackle water pollution and fish deaths in the Khlong Raphiphat 2 canal in Khlong Luang district, Pathum Thani province. The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has directed the Royal Irrigation Department, the Department of Land Development, and the Department of Fisheries to collaborate on restoring water quality and reducing the impact on local communities.
The suspected cause of the pollution involves wastewater from flooded fields entering the canals, combined with high water levels in the Chao Phraya River, which has hindered drainage and led to polluted water accumulation. Official water quality test results are pending to confirm the exact cause of the fish deaths.
As part of the restoration plan, the Royal Irrigation Department will introduce about 500,000 cubic meters of clean water daily to dilute the wastewater. Water pumps will be installed to enhance water circulation and oxygenation. Monitoring will ensure that water levels at the downstream control point remain below 1.80 meters above mean sea level to protect homes and communities.
The Department of Land Development has distributed over 120,000 liters of wastewater treatment chemicals and microorganisms (PD.6) in the Khlong Song area, increasing production by another 20,000 liters daily. The Department of Fisheries plans to introduce microorganisms (PM.1 and PM.2) to treat wastewater, reduce organic matter, and improve water quality in Khlong Song and nearby canals, starting October 23rd.
The deputy spokesperson noted that if there is no significant rainfall and water inflow remains within planned levels, floodwaters in the target areas may be drained by mid-November. Continuous monitoring is necessary to assess water quality and develop appropriate solutions.