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Published on August 15, 2007

The "Bright Chao Phya River in honour of His Majesty" project has two committees - one for tourism promotion, chaired by Tourism Minister Suvit Yodmani, and the other for landscaping and community relations, chaired by Interior Minister Aree Wongsearaya.

"We will follow up progress made by the committees," Social Development and Human Security Minister Paiboon Wattanasiritham said yesterday.

Both panels have developed short-term measures to be implemented before December 5, HM the King's 80th birthday.

They include reducing garbage at sources, controlling water hyacinth growth, encouraging people and communities to help conserve the river, dredging canals, plus rehabilitating mangrove forests and coastal resources.

Riverside walkways would be constructed around the Rama VIII Bridge in Bangkok.

"Authorities will also check safety standards at piers and water transport on the river," Paiboon said.

Samart Chokkanapitak, director-general of the Irrigation Department, said his department was ready to implement measures to secure supplies of fresh water for the country and would cooperate with other agencies.

Meanwhile, deputy minister Poldej Pinpratheep said local people would be encouraged to help ministry officials protect about two million rai of forestland.