12 million Bangkok people are worried about flooding

Bangkok's governor today said the capital people need to be prepared for a situation where they must evacuate when floodwaters flood.

>>>Thailand is flooded
>>> Bangkok people panicked because of flooding alarms

Sukhumbhand Paribatra, a member of the Democratic Party, today warned that seven northern and eastern districts of Bangkok are in danger of being flooded as a result of a breakout, AFP reported. Officials in the lower parts of Bangkok are racing against time to reinforce dikes built with millions of sandbags, in an effort to protect the city of 12 million people from the floodwaters.

Thai soldiers help people flood in public areas
Nava Nakhorn, not far from Bangkok. (Photo: AFP)

Mr. Sukhumbhand recommended that people in these areas pull out electrical equipment, move furniture to higher places and pay attention to the city's evacuation plan. Bangkok officials say they have 24 hours to prepare to evacuate if floodwaters come.

Capital officials' warnings are in stark contrast to previous comments from the Thai government that Bangkok's risk of flooding has decreased.

Thai Prime Minister today called on parties to unite against flooding."Today, I will frankly tell you the truth. I have used everything in the current crisis, but I cannot solve it myself. I need cooperation from all parties" , AFP quoted Thai Prime Minister as saying with teary eyes. "Put politics aside. We have to revive the spirit of the people together, " Ms. Yingluck added, with the intention of directing the call to the opposition Democratic Party.

Bangkok Post reported that the Thai prime minister visited the Flood Control Operations Center (FROC) and announced that he accepted all criticisms and promised to improve the way information dissemination is spread. This promise came after a poll showed people lost in the turbulent information about the flood, given by FROC spokespersons. Thai people even believe that information from FROC is unreliable.

Yingluck and leader of opposition Democratic Party Abhisit Vejjajiva
(light blue shirt) and discussing the plan against flooding on October 11. (Photo: The Nation)

Ms. Yingluck said the government always conveys to the people the truth and does not hide anything, because the flood situation is very serious. The Thai prime minister also confirmed that the water outlets on the canals will be opened, to bring water into the Chao Phraya River to protect Bangkok's inner city. Ms. Yingluck also asked people not to damage flood protection dikes with sandbags.

According to Thai officials, it may take another month before huge volumes of water flow from the central plains to the sea. Three months of rainy season with torrential rains caused great flooding, causing many Thai houses to be damaged and at least 317 people were killed.

The lives of millions of people are affected by floods, while tens of thousands of others have to flee in evacuation zones. Currently, about one-third of Thailand's provinces and three-quarters of its area are still affected by floodwaters, many of which have a depth of several meters.

Prime Minister Yingluck said Thailand will need at least $ 3.3 billion to rebuild after the flood, while economic losses are about $ 4.9 billion, equivalent to about 1.3 to 1.5% of total production. annual products. The Thai government predicts a historic flood could reduce economic growth this year, with the rate falling by about 1 to 1.7%.