Plans for Recovery in Chiang Rai Underway
PUBLISHED: 15 Sep 2024 at 06:25
The Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) has announced a gradual improvement in the flooding situation in Chiang Rai by Monday, although a return to normalcy may be temporary.
According to ONWR, water levels in the Muang and Mae Sai districts are set to recede, with conditions expected to stabilize soon.
Plans are in place to expedite the drainage of floodwaters from affected areas in these northern districts.
Coordinated efforts are underway among various local agencies to tackle inundation issues and restore water systems in both districts.
Key stakeholders including the Provincial Waterworks Authority and relevant state agencies are actively involved in recovery operations.
On Saturday, representatives from various water-related agencies met in Chiang Rai to evaluate the flood situation and formulate recovery strategies. Water levels in affected districts dropped by approximately one meter.
Residents in Mae Sai have been advised to relocate their vehicles parked along Phahon Yothin Road to facilitate cleanup efforts.
Local authorities have called for volunteers to assist in cleaning efforts as floodwaters recede.
Despite challenging conditions, crossings at the Mae Sai border with Tachileik, Myanmar, continue, as agencies and local businesses work diligently to clear debris.
Ongoing rain on Saturday complicated cleanup efforts, creating challenges with abandoned vehicles trapped in the mud.
Authorities estimate that the cleanup may take over 20 days, with additional rainfall predicted from impending storms.
Many shops adjacent to Phahon Yothin Road have suffered significant damage.
In the Mae Sai district, while water levels have begun to decline, several areas still contend with strong currents. Rescue operations continued on Saturday.
Locations such as Ban Mai Lung Khon and Ban Muang Daeng have seen water levels recede; however, substantial damage to homes remains a serious concern.
Chiang Rai is preparing to host its “Big Cleaning Day” on Tuesday as part of recovery efforts.
Additionally, Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai International Airport has reopened following a decrease in water levels.
