"Mayor Pan" affirms Hat Yai is prepared for the 2026 flood season, accelerating canal dredging and preparing water pumps and retention areas. Government agencies and universities are ready with alert systems, hoping for increased government funding.,
On 31 Aug 2026 GMT+7, Mayor Narongporn Na Phatthalung of Hat Yai Municipality spoke about preparations for this year’s flood response, stating that the Songkhla provincial governor leads the effort. A command center for readiness and alerts has been set up with participation from government agencies, local authorities, the municipality, and university professors.
Hat Yai covers 21 square kilometers. Preparations along canals include dredging, removing logs, and preparing multiple water pumps. Initially, there are 18 pumps, but the goal is to have over 20 to handle and resolve issues if floodwaters enter the city.
Regarding requests for additional budget, Narongporn said it depends on the Songkhla provincial governor, as Hat Yai has submitted projects totaling over one billion baht, though it is unclear how much will be approved. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has initially allocated over 20 million baht for canal dredging, which is currently underway.
When asked about concerns over potential budget cuts, Narongporn responded that it depends on higher authorities’ goodwill. The municipality must prepare water management plans since flood severity is uncertain. This includes identifying retention canals to enhance water drainage and preparing water pumps.
Asked whether there are concerns about a repeat of the 2025 flood, Narongporn said that the 2025 floods were a once-in-300-years event. This year’s situation depends on water conditions, which cannot be predicted with certainty due to natural variability.
Regarding joint assessments with the Meteorological Department, the Mayor said this responsibility lies with the province and university scientists equipped with extensive scientific instruments. The municipality lacks tools for monitoring humidity and water movement but confirms Hat Yai is ready to follow provincial directives.
On past controversies over water management affecting morale, Narongporn said that when they first started six months ago, they did not expect such high water levels and trusted the existing pumps. However, with the increased water volume, this year they plan to add more pumps along canals. Currently, local residents are regaining confidence in the municipality’s efforts.