Deforestation still a problem: PM

Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra expressed concern yesterday that the problem of deforestation in upstream areas could worsen the country's water situation and increase the chances of severe flooding and drought.

Yingluck said persistent deforestation pointed to the need for reforestation projects to continue.

Speaking during yesterday's weekly programme "The Yingluck Government Meets the People", broadcast by the Public Relations Department, the prime minister said dykes and water sluice gates in Bangkok that were damaged during last year's massive flooding have all been repaired. This week's programme was recorded on Friday during her visit to the Sam Wa Canal in Pathum Thani to inspect a dredging operation.

The PM thanked the public and private sectors for their assistance in dredging canals. She said the government has requested cooperation from communities and the private sector to help take care of the canals, with one company per canal. Under a pilot project, 277 firms have taken part in caring for 307 canals, she said.

Deputy Prime Minister Kittiratt Na-Ranong yesterday expressed confidence that all the government's flood-prevention projects would be completed before "the arrival of the water mass" this year.