Can Bangkok’s ageing drainage system defeat La Niña flood threat?

11 Sept 01:05 Key points summarised by AI

Bangkok faces a severe flood threat from La Niña's unusually high rainfall, exacerbated by an aging drainage system and expanding urban population that struggles with rainfall exceeding 60mm/hour.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is implementing urgent measures, including strengthening defenses in 179 flood-prone areas, dredging 4,280km of drainage pipes and canals, and enhancing pumping stations and drainage tunnels.
Experts forecast higher-than-average rainfall (5-10% increase) this year, intensifying flood potential across Thailand, including Bangkok, while paradoxically, some regions also face drought risks due to critically low dam levels.
Despite the heightened risk, some experts are cautiously optimistic that Bangkok's improved preparations, learning from the 2022 floods, could prevent a disaster worse than two years ago, though local empowerment in water management is urged.

Stores rejecting Thailand’s co-payment scheme fearing back taxes

Today 00:25 Key points summarised by AI

Thai eateries and stores are increasingly refusing the government's 50:50 co-payment stimulus scheme, despite its sales-boosting effects.
The primary reason for rejection is fear of revenue officials demanding back taxes, with some businesses claiming they have already faced significant tax demands.
The Fiscal Policy Office insists the co-payment scheme is not linked to the Revenue Department's database, asserting that back taxes should not be a problem for participating small entrepreneurs.
The office clarified that only businesses earning over 1.8 million baht annually are required to register for VAT, with penalties for non-compliance.