Bangkok: Bangkok is facing significant challenges with its drainage system, which is struggling to keep up with the demands of a rapidly changing climate and urban environment. Dr. Phichit Rattakul, former Governor of Bangkok, has identified the need to move beyond short-term fixes and focus on creating a resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding the impacts of climate change.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Phichit emphasized that traditional predictions based on phenomena like El Ni±o and La Ni±a are becoming obsolete. Instead, Bangkok is now encountering “rain bombs,” which involve intense, localized rainfall, and “heat domes,” caused by the city’s dense architecture and heat emissions, including those from electric vehicle batteries. These factors contribute to severe waterlogging issues in the city.
Dr. Phichit highlighted the paradox facing Bangkok: the city experiences severe floods during the rainy season and water scarcity during dry spells. He advocated for the implementation of King Rama IX’s “Monkey Cheek” initiative, which involves creating micro-water reservoirs in villages and canals to manage water flow and availability efficiently.
The rapid urbanization of Bangkok, with a transient population reaching nearly 10 million during the day, has led to an overburdened drainage system. Physical obstructions from buildings and roads further impede water flow. Notably, what previously took three hours to drain now takes half a day or more, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive urban planning.
Dr. Phichit proposed a holistic approach involving urban planning, drainage enhancements, construction permit revisions, and urban cooling strategies. He stressed the importance of having a Bangkok governor who is not just a capable leader but also a skilled coordinator. The governor must collaborate with various central government agencies, including the police, waterworks, electricity authority, Department of Highways, and State Railway of Thailand, to effectively manage the city’s infrastructure challenges.
In conclusion, for Bangkok to maintain its status as a leading global tourist destination, it must prioritize safety and resilience. By doing so, the city can better recover from climate-related disasters and ensure a sustainable future for the generations to come.