Bangkok Could Be Underwater in 7 Years: Alarming Truth About Rising Sea Levels and Flooding

Rising sea levels have put Thailand on high caution. Experts warn that Bangkok might submerge within seven years.

Anusorn Thammajai, Dean of the Faculty of Economics at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and former member of the National Research Council of Thailand noted that if the government does not take action, 80% of Bangkok might submerge in the next seven years.

He added that if that happens, it could cause severe damage to the Thai economy, resulting in an economic loss of 18.6 trillion baht (approximately $550 billion) and affecting over 10.45 million residents. He emphasized the need for research into urban sinking or rising sea levels, as if there are no investments, there will be severe consequences.

Anusorn proposed several solutions to address this crisis. He advised that the government should construct dams or coastal roads and suggested planting mangroves in coastal areas to create buffer zones that could also serve as tourist attractions.

He also stressed the need to diversify funding across sectors to stimulate investment in protecting Bangkok and surrounding areas and ensuring economic activities remain intact after potential flooding.

Consider Relocating the Capital

In May, the Deputy Minister of Thailand’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment indicated that relocating the capital might be necessary.

At that time, he remarked, “Low-lying Bangkok could be submerged by the end of this century. Currently, Bangkok experiences significant flooding during the rainy season.”

The largest city in Thailand, Bangkok, is located in central-southern Thailand and serves as the capital. It is the cultural and economic hub of the country, with a population exceeding 10 million.

According to World Bank forecasts, 40% of Bangkok could be submerged by 2030, leading to severe flooding if authorities do not act.

Currently, Bangkok sinks by an average of 1 to 2 centimeters (0.4 to 0.8 inches) each year, while sea levels rise by about 4 centimeters (1.6 inches) annually.

Other cities such as Venice, Italy, and New Orleans face similar challenges.

Meanwhile, Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, also struggles with urban sinking and pollution issues, and plans are underway to relocate the capital to Nusantara.