Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) officials have responded to public complaints about a noxious odor emanating from the Phadung Krung Kasem canal by conducting a thorough inspection. Accompanied by his deputy, Wisanu Subsompon, and personnel from the BMA’s Department of Drainage and Sewerage, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt personally assessed the situation to address the reported stench in the canal.
The governor highlighted the importance of reducing water levels in Bangkok’s canals during the rainy season to accommodate rainwater and mitigate the risk of flooding. However, the consequence of draining substantial amounts of water from the Phadung Krung Kasem canal revealed a troubling issue. The sludge settled at the canal’s bottom, when exposed to air due to the water reduction, began to emit sulfur, causing the unpleasant stench. Adding to the problem are the vessels operating on the canal, which disturb the sludge and exacerbate the foul smell. Despite this challenge, draining water from canals remains essential to prevent floods in the city.
Governor Chadchart emphasized the BMA’s continuous monitoring of the Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) reading in the canal waters. The BOD reading serves as a measure of water pollution levels, with a lower reading indicating cleaner water. However, the recent reading for Phadung Krung Kasem canal stood at 9, which is still within acceptable standards as it needs to be below 20. Unfortunately, the draining process from the canals can cause the BOD reading to deteriorate due to the sludge being brought closer to the water’s surface.
Expressing gratitude to the public for providing valuable information and feedback on the matter, Governor Chadchart assured the community that the BMA, along with other relevant agencies, is committed to making improvements. He acknowledged that the stench issue might have arisen from the excessive water drainage measures taken by City Hall to combat potential floods. Finding a balance between drainage to prevent floods and minimizing the foul odor from the canal remains a top priority for the administration.
