Governor Chatchat personally visited Khlong Chan Housing, mobilizing “Thai-invented high-powered pipes” to speed up pumping water into Khlong Saen Saeb canal and pushing flow toward Phra Khanong. Water levels are beginning to recede, with preparations underway to redeploy personnel to assist Lat Krabang district.
On 30 Sep 2026 GMT+7, Mr. Chatchat Sithiphan, Governor of Bangkok, visited Khlong Chan Housing and the NIDA intersection in Bang Kapi district to monitor flooding. He inspected efforts to accelerate water pumping from communities and roads after water levels in Khlong Saen Saeb dropped, allowing increased drainage from flooded areas into the canal system. The operation involved mobilizing pumps, water-pushing boats, and “Thai-invented high-powered pipes” contributed by civil society networks to strengthen efforts.
Governor Chatchat explained that the key to resolving the Khlong Chan area flooding is to first lower water levels in Khlong Saen Saeb. Previously, high canal levels prevented pumps from working efficiently, as pumped water risked flowing back. However, after Bangkok continuously accelerated drainage toward Phra Khanong, water levels began to fall and more space became available to receive water, enabling faster pumping from Khlong Chan housing into the canal.
“Once Khlong Saen Saeb levels decrease, there is more capacity for us to pump water into the canal. The situation gradually improves. We must reduce the canal level first, then quickly remove water from roads and communities,” Governor Chatchat said.
To speed drainage in Khlong Saen Saeb, Bangkok deployed high-powered boats positioned along the canal and near bridges to increase water flow speed toward the drainage system and Phra Khanong floodgate. As water levels in the main canal drop, this enhances the ability to draw water from nearby streets, alleys, and communities into the system.
Concurrently, “Thai-invented high-powered pipes,” supported by civil society and entrepreneurs from Prachinburi and Ayutthaya provinces, were introduced. These devices are adapted from large agricultural engines originally used to pump water into rice fields, fish ponds, and shrimp ponds. The pipes, about 15 inches in diameter, can pump large volumes of water and suit the low-lying, basin-like terrain of Khlong Chan Housing where water accumulates.
Governor Chatchat praised the device as a Thai innovation well adapted to the situation. Support came from provincial networks in Prachinburi and Ayutthaya following requests for assistance. Since this type of equipment is not typically used by Bangkok, it represents new knowledge and experience—an innovation creatively repurposing existing tools. He expressed gratitude to the equipment owners and networks helping Bangkok residents.
Water pumping began around 03:30, with officials adjusting the pipe positions and angles and reinforcing bases with sandbags to stabilize them. This setup allowed pipe ends to efficiently draw water from low points. Initial operation showed water levels dropped about 15 centimeters within roughly one hour. Operating two units simultaneously further increased drainage speed.
In many parts of Khlong Chan Housing, water levels visibly decreased. Initially, boats were needed for movement; now some areas allow walking and vehicle access. However, some inner locations remain deeply flooded, requiring ongoing pumping and assistance with large vehicles to support residents.
Traffic near NIDA intersection and in front of Khlong Chan Housing remains inconvenient in the morning due to pipes crossing roads for pumping. Motorcyclists especially must exercise caution because of water currents and equipment on site. Officials will continuously assess and adjust traffic management as needed.
Regarding adjacent areas, Governor Chatchat noted that water levels have decreased on Ramkhamhaeng Road and several inner locations, allowing more small vehicles to pass. However, some alleys in Hua Mak and deeper areas still require urgent pumping and await further drops in Khlong Saen Saeb levels. Conditions on Lat Phrao Road have improved significantly.
Meanwhile, Lat Krabang district still faces some flooding due to high water in Khlong Prawet Buri, slowing drainage compared to other areas. Bangkok plans to gradually move pumps and some equipment there to reinforce efforts to lower Khlong Prawet Buri water levels, which will subsequently help reduce flooding in Phatthanakan and connected areas.
In Sai Mai district, Bangkok continues monitoring water inflows from adjoining Pathum Thani province, which may cause rising water levels in some communities despite no rainfall. The city uses a Cell Broadcast alert system to inform residents in advance, ensuring messages are clear, precise, and not alarmist.
Governor Chatchat emphasized that although conditions in many areas are improving, the mission is not over. Bangkok must continue rapidly lowering water levels in main canals, pumping water from roads and communities, and rotating equipment to ongoing problem areas.
“During floods, water enters easily but is slow to exit. We must use every method and tool available, working together to lower water levels in canals and on streets, then draw water out of communities. The goal is to restore normal living conditions for residents as quickly as possible,” Governor Chatchat stated.