CHIANG RAI – The 3rd Army is making rapid progress on a crucial mission in Mae Sai, Chiang Rai. Troops and heavy machinery are working around the clock to upgrade the temporary flood wall along the Sai River. This massive project aims to protect local businesses and homes from severe flooding during the upcoming rainy season.
The military began this urgent work on May 15, 2026. The main goal is to prevent a repeat of the devastating floods and mudslides caused by Typhoon Yagi in September 2024. Officials recognized that the old sandbag defenses were deteriorating quickly, prompting an immediate call for military support.
Key Takeaways
- Rapid Progress: The Mae Sai flood wall upgrade is now over 80% complete and on track to finish by June 28, 2026.
- Military Action: The 3rd Army Area deployed 60 troops and heavy equipment to repair 13 high-risk zones along the river.
- Past Lessons: The project is a direct response to the catastrophic Typhoon Yagi floods of 2024 that ruined local homes.
- Community Support: Residents and private businesses are actively providing food and encouragement to the working troops.
The memory of past natural disasters is still very fresh for the people of Mae Sai. Many families lost their homes and businesses to the intense mudslides. While army engineers successfully built some semi-permanent barriers in 2025, the older plastic “Big Bag” walls were starting to fail.
The situation became much more critical recently. A neighboring country began building permanent concrete walls on its side of the riverbank. This new construction across the border could significantly increase water pressure during heavy rains.
Experts warned that it raises the serious risk of the old barriers collapsing if flash floods occur. Because of this looming threat, Chiang Rai authorities urgently requested help from the Royal Thai Army. They needed immediate action to reinforce the fragile flood defenses before the heavy rains arrived.
Teamwork and Steady Progress
This operation is a true community and military group effort. The 3rd Army has teamed up closely with local agencies to get the job done right. The 4th Engineer Battalion from the 4th Infantry Division is leading the charge on the ground.
They have deployed a dedicated team of 60 soldiers. These troops are fully equipped with 20 pieces of heavy machinery, including large dump trucks and excavators. The soldiers are working hand-in-hand with volunteers from the 37th Military Circle and the 7th Infantry Division.
Local government bodies are also pitching in to help. Groups like the Chiang Rai Provincial Administrative Organization and the Mae Sai Subdistrict Municipality are providing essential support. The work covers 13 specific locations stretching over 1,189 meters from the Hua Fai community to the Mai Lung Khon area.
Nearing the Finish Line
To maximize efficiency, the construction site is divided into three main operational zones. Currently, the overall progress stands at an impressive 80.74%. Zone A, located near the Thai-Myanmar border crossing, is 85.02% complete.
Zone B, around the bustling market intersection, has reached 80.25%. Meanwhile, Zone C, situated behind the water treatment ponds, is leading the way at a solid 90.36%. Everything is running exactly according to the strict military timeline.
For more details on the ongoing flood relief efforts in the region, you can follow the latest official updates from the Public Relations Department.
The entire project is expected to be fully completed by June 28, 2026. This will wrap up a 45-day intensive effort by all involved. Throughout this period, top military commanders and government officials have frequently visited the site to monitor the work.
Strict Standards and Local Support
Lt. Gen. Worathep Boonya, Commander of the 3rd Army, recently inspected the construction. He was joined by Deputy Interior Minister Jeset Thaiset. Both leaders stressed the absolute importance of following strict engineering standards.
This careful oversight ensures the flood walls are strong enough to handle future high-water emergencies effectively. They do not want the people of Mae Sai to suffer through another disaster.
The local community has shown incredible support and gratitude for the soldiers. Residents and private businesses in Mae Sai have been donating fresh food and cold drinks daily. This kindness helps boost the troops’ morale during the hot working hours.
The 3rd Army has publicly thanked everyone for their generous help and partnership. The military remains fully committed to finishing this vital project on time. They are doing everything possible to prepare the town for the rainy season and keep the public safe.
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