Anutin orders study of water retention areas around Bangkok

Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul has expressed support for a proposal to construct ‘monkey cheek’ water retention areas around Bangkok. The idea was originally suggested by Attawit Suwannapakdee, a list MP from the United Thai Nation Party.

Following the proposal, the Prime Minister has instructed the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning to investigate the feasibility of implementing these retention areas directly around the capital. Additionally, the Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) has been tasked with studying ways to expand water storage areas.

The government aims to create infrastructure that serves a dual purpose: managing excess water during flood seasons and storing it for use during the dry season. The Prime Minister confirmed that budget is available for these projects and noted that the Royal Irrigation Department already has nationwide plans in coordination with local authorities to enhance water management.