Ever wonder where Bangkok gets its reliable water supply? Today we explore the Thungmahamek Waterworks Branch Office. This office plays a vital role in delivering clean water to the city. It is located at 9/2 Nanglinchee Road in the Chong Nonsi area of Yan Nawa District.
Thungmahamek Waterworks Branch Office is one of the Metropolitan Waterworks Authority’s branch offices. The Metropolitan Waterworks Authority or MWA ensures that residents and businesses have access to potable water. MWA began operations in 1967. It serves Bangkok, Nonthaburi, and Samut Prakan provinces.
Let’s delve into the history of water management in Bangkok. King Rama V saw the need for a modern water system in the late 19th century. He had visited Europe and realized the importance of clean water. The king ordered the establishment of a Sanitary Department. This department aimed to provide water to Bangkok’s growing population.
Before this, people relied on rivers and canals. These sources were often contaminated and led to epidemics. The Sanitary Department surveyed the area. They dug a canal from the Chao Phraya River in Pathum Thani. This canal brought cleaner water into Bangkok.
King Rama V hired French experts to improve water procurement. In 1909, he decreed that the government would provide a modern water supply. Canals were dug, and water pumps were installed. These delivered water to treatment plants in the Sam Sen area. Underground pipes distributed water throughout Bangkok. The project cost over four million baht. Construction took five years. The king named the result Bangkok Waterworks. The first water treatment plant was established in 1914.
Demand for water increased rapidly. People in the suburbs carried pots to collect water. The government merged Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, and Thonburi’s water supplies with Bangkok Waterworks. The Metropolitan Waterworks Authority was formed in 1967. It became a public enterprise under the Interior Ministry.
MWA draws raw water from two main sources. These are the Chao Phraya River and the Mae Klong Dam. The water is treated at four plants. These plants are Bang Khen, Sam Sen, Thonburi, and Maha Sawat. The treated water is distributed through 37700 kilometers of pipes. MWA serves over two million customers.
If you have any issues with your water supply, Thungmahamek Waterworks Branch Office can help. You can contact them for new connections or to report burst pipes. Call them about inaccurate water bills or low water pressure. The office also handles debt inquiries and bank account deductions related to water bills.
Thungmahamek Waterworks Branch Office is crucial to Bangkok’s water infrastructure. Its location makes it easily accessible by bus. You can take regular buses 22, 62, 67, or 89. Air-conditioned buses 22, 62, and 67 also serve the area. The office is near Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem and the Chao Phraya River. The Chong Nonsi Railway Line is also nearby.
The Metropolitan Waterworks Authority continues to adapt to modern challenges. These include source water salinity due to droughts. MWA monitors water quality. It advises customers on how to manage their water intake. The Thungmahamek Branch Office plays a vital role in this effort. Ensuring that Bangkok has a reliable and safe water supply for years to come.