Residents, volunteers and local officials have joined forces today for a major clean-up of roads in Mae Sai district of Chiang Rai, which has been suffering the worst flooding in about 30 years.
On some sections of the main Phahonyothin Road, mud and other debris are covering it to a depth of about a metre. Excavators and heavy trucks are being used to clear the debris, an operation which is being hampered by more rain.
A number of cars remain stranded in the mud, as their owners wait for the mud to be cleared.
Many shops in the district have also sustained heavy damage in the flooding. One clothes shop owner said that most of his goods have been damaged, adding that it could put an end to his business.
Although the floodwater is steadily receding in most of the district, some communities, such as Koh Sai, are still being affected by strong currents, making it hazardous for residents to attempt to leave their communities.
The Comptroller Department has informed the Department of Public Disaster Prevention and Mitigation that it has approved an additional 100 million baht to help flood victims in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.
Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul flew to Nong Khai province today, to see the situation first hand and to visit flood victims. Several districts are now inundated by overflows from the swollen Mekong River.
