Maldivians living in and visiting Bangkok are safe, with no injuries or other incidents involving Maldivian nationals reported amid severe flooding across the Thai capital, the Maldives Embassy in Thailand has said.
Maldivian Ambassador to Thailand Fuwad Thowfeek said the embassy was closely monitoring developments as heavy rainfall continued to affect Bangkok, causing widespread flooding and disruption across the city.
The assurance comes as Bangkok authorities declared all 50 districts of the capital disaster-affected areas following days of intense rainfall.
Responding to concerns over the safety of Maldivians in Thailand, Thowfeek said the embassy had so far received no reports of Maldivian nationals being injured or otherwise affected by the flooding.
Thailand, particularly Bangkok, is one of the most frequently visited overseas destinations for Maldivians, including for holidays, medical treatment, education and business. The embassy has therefore urged Maldivians in affected areas to remain alert and contact officials if they require assistance.
Anyone requiring help or wishing to report an incident involving a Maldivian national can contact the Maldives Embassy emergency hotline at +66 96 778 8885.
Bangkok has been battling widespread flooding following continuous heavy rain between Thursday and Saturday, with roads inundated in several parts of the capital.
On September 26, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration designated all 50 administrative districts as disaster zones as authorities stepped up their response to the flooding.
Rainfall has been particularly intense this month. Thailand’s Meteorological Department reported that Bangkok received 487 millimetres of rain between September 1 and September 25, adding to pressure on the city’s drainage system.
Thai disaster management authorities have also warned that further rainfall could continue to cause flooding and rising river levels through September 27.
The Maldives Embassy said it will continue monitoring the situation and urged Maldivians in Thailand to contact the mission should they encounter difficulties.
