Thailand: Heavy rains, construction cause traffic congestion in Bangkok

Event

Recent heavy rains, consequent flooding, and the construction of a railway transit system have caused traffic congestion in Bangkok as of early August. Among the areas most acutely affected by the traffic jams are Lat Phrao Road - where construction on the electric train system has been focused - and on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road (toward the Din Daeng toll gate), Ratchadaphisek Road, Prasert-Manukitch Road, Phahon Yothin Road, and the Rama VIII Bridge.

Despite the deployment of additional traffic police across Bangkok on Monday, August 6, to ameliorate congestion, further traffic disruptions are expected in the capital in the coming months as the monsoon season continues.

Context

The monsoon season in Thailand typically spans from April to October.

Advice

Individuals present in Bangkok are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly hit by flooding, prepare for transportation disruptions in low-lying areas, and adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.