The Cabinet approved a flood mitigation project for the lower Phetchaburi river basin to permanently resolve flooding in Phetchaburi City, with a total budget framework of 14.7 billion baht and a 10-year implementation period.
At the Cabinet meeting on 5 Aug 2026 GMT+7, Captain Phattharadasmi Thongsaluaykorn, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister’s Office, announced that the Cabinet approved the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, through the Royal Irrigation Department, to implement the “Flood Mitigation Project for the Lower Phetchaburi River Basin Initiated by Royal Command, Phetchaburi Province” with a total budget of 14.7 billion baht over 10 years (fiscal years 2027–2036). The Cabinet also approved an exemption from previous resolutions related to mangrove forest area use to enable the project to proceed effectively and legally.
The project involves improving and excavating new drainage canals totaling 38.92 kilometers, stretching from north of Phet Dam in Tha Yang District to the water discharge point into the Gulf of Thailand in Cha-Am District, Phetchaburi Province. This will increase water discharge capacity into the Gulf of Thailand, augment water resources, and reduce flood damage across more than 33,690 rai of land.
However, because the water discharge point into the Gulf of Thailand passes through approximately 162 rai of mangrove forest area, the Cabinet approved an exemption from the previous resolution that prohibited use of mangrove areas. This exemption comes with the condition that relevant agencies must strictly implement environmental measures and closely monitor the ecosystem impact.
In addition, the Cabinet instructed the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives to expedite land acquisition, ensure fair compensation payments, and foster public participation with local residents to ensure the project meets its goals and maximizes benefits for the community.