Chadchart explained the controversy over canceling the "Monkey Cheeks" project, noting that private land constraints require over 11 billion baht for expropriation. He emphasized choosing methods based on technical principles, and regarding calls for his dismissal as governor, he said, "It's up to the Prime Minister." Tags: [Chadchart, Monkey Cheeks project, land expropriation, Bangkok Governor, flood control]
On 1 Oct 2026 GMT+7, at the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, explained the controversy over canceling the Monkey Cheeks project. He affirmed that the royal initiative was not canceled. The Monkey Cheeks is one of five key flood prevention concepts bestowed by His Majesty the King, which include building flood barriers, shortcuts and tunnels, canal and water condition improvement, embankments, and the Monkey Cheeks concept.Tags: [Chadchart Sittipunt, Bangkok Governor, Monkey Cheeks, royal initiative, flood prevention]
Chadchart continued that the principle of Monkey Cheeks requires space to store water with convenient entry and exit points. When water volume is high, water can be stored and later released. However, studies in several areas after the major 2011 floods found limitations in space and drainage systems, as these areas belong to private owners. Proceeding would require expropriation and additional investment to build water intake and outflow systems.Tags: [Monkey Cheeks principle, flood storage, private land, expropriation, drainage systems]
Regarding the contested area, proceeding with the original project design would require approximately 11 billion baht for land expropriation and system development. Meanwhile, alternative approaches like dredging and improving canals or constructing shortcuts and tunnels would require less budget and better suit the area's conditions. This decision was based on technical considerations, not the cancellation of the royal initiative.Tags: [land expropriation cost, alternative flood solutions, technical considerations, project cancellation, budget]
Chadchart emphasized that the Monkey Cheeks concept is still applied, especially in areas with existing ponds or water retention basins. These can be developed and connected to Bangkok's drainage system, such as Nong Bon pond and the western coastal area near Bang Khun Thian, which serves as a large Monkey Cheeks basin with a main water system.Tags: [Monkey Cheeks application, water retention, Nong Bon pond, Bang Khun Thian, drainage system]
Regarding Bueng Kum area, if there is existing water retention space, Bangkok will focus on developing it for benefit by dredging canals and linking with drainage systems. Chadchart noted that the royal initiative includes not only Monkey Cheeks but also other approaches like creating shortcuts, improving canals, and water management tailored to each area.Tags: [Bueng Kum, water retention development, canal dredging, royal initiative, water management]
Addressing accusations that canceling the project benefits private interests, Chadchart denied this, stating that if private land is suitable and needed for Monkey Cheeks, Bangkok must expropriate and compensate the owners regardless. Therefore, there is no reason for favoritism toward private entities.Tags: [accusations, private interests, project cancellation, land expropriation, compensation]
Chadchart reiterated that linking this matter to opposing or canceling the royal initiative is a misunderstanding. Bangkok continues to adopt the King's water management principles, selecting methods appropriate to the area's conditions for maximum benefit. He confirmed that water in Bangkok's canals is already managed appropriately, but when there is excess water, management must adapt to the situation, including local tidal factors.Tags: [royal initiative, water management, technical adaptation, canal water control, tidal factors]
Regarding some public calls for the Prime Minister to remove him as Bangkok Governor, Chadchart said, "It's up to the Prime Minister; I have no problem." When asked if he felt discouraged, he replied, "It's okay. I am doing my best. I believe the controversy linking this to the royal initiative is unrelated. We focus on technical considerations to do what is best. I understand some locals want this project, but for a citywide Monkey Cheeks system, we must consider if water truly enters, how it flows in and out, and investment costs. I believe there are newer technologies that can replace this with higher efficiency."Tags: [public criticism, dismissal calls, technical focus, project feasibility, new technology]
Regarding public feedback criticizing Bangkok's flood response errors, Chadchart respected all opinions. He acknowledged mixed reactions but stated, "Everyone can express their views. It depends on the Prime Minister whether to remove me or not. We can answer all questions about what happened and what actions we took."Tags: [public feedback, flood response, leadership accountability, Prime Minister decision, transparency]}