Thailand floods villages to protect capital
After devastating floods in 2011, the government expanded embankments, water gates, and other infrastructure to direct water away from Bangkok, the historic city of Ayutthaya and industrial zones along the Chao Phraya River
Thailand is intentionally flooding villages north of Bangkok to protect the capital city. Residents of these villages, such as Kamonchanok Sathaphonamonwut, are living in makeshift platforms and cannot use waterlogged toilets. Some villages have been flooded six years in a row, forcing some to move away while others raise their houses higher.
Authorities prioritize protecting Bangkok and other business hubs from floods, while neglecting residential communities. Thailand experiences frequent and severe flooding due to climate change, and officials acknowledge that infrastructure may need to be reviewed to ensure floodwater remains within intended limits. Environmental conservationists argue that the government's efforts are cruel to those bearing the brunt of the flooding.
Residents propose a "flood-free tax" on those who benefit from flood defenses to help impacted families raise their homes and repair damage.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu - Sci-Tech's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
