Bangkok recovers from severe flooding and economic losses

Bangkok is undergoing a gradual recovery following severe flooding caused by heavy rainfall between September 24 and 27. The deluge, which saw approximately 320mm of rain in three days, has affected roughly 700,000 residents and 329,000 households across several districts, including Lat Krabang, Bang Kapi, and Sai Mai.

At least four deaths have been reported in Bangkok, contributing to a total of 23 fatalities across Thailand since mid-September. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt stated that while some major roads are reopening, residential areas acting as basins may take up to a week to fully recover. Authorities are currently utilizing drainage tunnels and boats to accelerate water removal.

Economically, the flooding has caused significant disruption. An analysis by Rangsit University estimates that Bangkok alone has suffered losses of approximately 10.586 billion baht (RM1.3 billion), impacting wholesale, retail, finance, and public administration sectors. Total economic losses across 48 Thai provinces are estimated at 25.3 billion baht. Industry leaders noted that the scale of the flooding caught many retailers unprepared, and there are concerns regarding potential impacts on the tourism sector.