4,000 artesian wells will be ready by April to ease water shortage problem

Authorities concerned have stepped up the dredging of artesian wells hoping to dredge up to 4,000 wells within next month so there will be water for consumption and farming purpose to ease water shortage problem, said government spokesman Maj-Gen Sansern Kaewkamnerd Monday.

He disclosed that, so far, 2,192 artesian wells have been dredged – 1,104 wells for consumption and the rest for agricultural purpose.

As far as artificial rain-making is concerned, the spokesman admitted that the effort has not been very successful due to the low humidity in the air although the effort has been stepped up.

He disclosed that during February 15-March 3, the Royal Artificial Rain-making and Agricultural Aviation Department operated altogether 12 cloud-seeding flights covering 55.6 percent of six central provinces resulting to some rains in parts of Chanthaburi and Nakhon Ratchasima provinces.

Another rain-making unit is to open on March 15 in Surat Thani province.

For rain-making effort to be effective, he said there must be at least 60 percent of humidity in the air.

Meanwhile Interior Minister Anupong Paochinda said that necessary steps had been put in place to deal with water shortage problem both for consumption and agriculture.

He however urged Bangkokians to use water sparingly and to be aware that there are many people in the rural areas who do not have water for consumption and for farming.

Thai PBS

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