Monks and troops protect Thailand's Ayutthaya temples as Chao Phraya rises

BANGKOK: Monks, troops and officials reinforce flood barriers at two historic Ayutthaya temples as rising Chao Phraya levels begin affecting riverside communities.

Authorities in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya are reinforcing flood defences at important riverside temples and historic sites as rising releases from the Chao Phraya Dam push water levels higher across the province.

On Thursday (Sept 24), levels continued to rise in the Chao Phraya, Noi and several tributaries, beginning to affect riverside communities and areas outside flood embankments.

Officials have stepped up preparations to protect important locations, particularly historic monuments.

Monks and troops install barriers at Wat Kasattrathirat

At Wat Kasattrathirat Worawihan in Ban Pom subdistrict, beside the Chao Phraya River, the water was rising steadily and the current remained strong. The level was about 30 centimetres below the temple’s outer riverbank.