Sanphet, Deputy Minister of Transport, visited U-Taphao Canal to expedite dredging of the waterway to enhance drainage efficiency and prevent flooding in Songkhla, while preparing to advance three continuous projects into 2027.
On 8 August 2026, Sanphet Boonyamanee, Deputy Minister of Transport, disclosed after inspecting the progress of the U-Taphao Canal dredging project in Songkhla Province that he also reviewed operations and readiness of the Marine Department to carry out dredging projects in the area. The goal is to improve water drainage efficiency to handle the rainy season, facilitate waterway transportation, and increase safety. Present were Arif Saraoeng, Director of Marine Office Region 4; Phanu Phasakdi, Director of Waterway Development and Maintenance Division 4; and Hiranwatti Suepkraphan, Director of Songkhla Marine Office, along with Marine Department officials who reported on the site condition, progress, and operational plans.
Sanphet stated that water management and flood mitigation are key issues that the government prioritizes and continually promotes, especially in Songkhla and the U-Taphao watershed, which plays a crucial role in regional drainage. Thus, preparations must cover infrastructure, dredging, and opening waterways to efficiently handle water volume, reducing risks and impacts on homes, economic areas, and residents' livelihoods.
For fiscal year 2026, the Marine Department is conducting a dredging project at U-Taphao Canal in Songkhla with a budget of 1,551,300 baht, removing 45,000 cubic meters of sediment to improve the canal’s efficiency and water drainage, as well as to facilitate and enhance safety for waterway users.
At the same time, preparations are underway for three projects scheduled for fiscal year 2027: dredging and maintenance of the coastal channel at U-Taphao Canal with a budget of 28,483,300 baht and 300,000 cubic meters of material to be dredged; dredging and maintenance at canal R.1 with the same budget; and dredging and maintenance at canal R.3 with an identical budget and dredging volume.
Sanphet instructed the Marine Department to expedite readiness for all projects to proceed as planned, focusing on removing shallow spots and obstacles that hinder water flow, enabling waterways to fully support drainage. He also emphasized coordination with provincial and relevant agencies to align operations with water management and flood prevention plans for the area.
"Flood management requires preparation before events occur, not reaction after water arrives. Dredging canals and waterways must be continuously pursued, especially U-Taphao Canal, a vital waterway in Songkhla. We need to ensure clear channels to reduce shallow points and obstructions, lowering risks to residents and economic zones. Efficient waterways also support transportation, livelihoods, and the local economy," he said.
He further stressed that all involved agencies must strictly follow plans and budgets with transparency, accountability, and legal compliance, prioritizing public benefit. This will ensure that investments in dredging and maintenance effectively address flood prevention, water transport, navigation safety, and Songkhla’s long-term economic development.
