On 16 October 2011 At 1200hrs., at the FROC, Pol. Gen. Pongsapat Pongcharoen, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, the Director General of the Irrigation Department and the representative from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration delivered a press conference. Gist is as follows. 

Gen.Pongsapat Pongcharoen briefed on the overall flooding situation for the general public for the most effective preparation. He confirmed that the government agencies have a good grasp of the situation to prepare for the floods, and confirms that essentially, Bangkok will not be affected.The Flood Relief Operation Center (FROC) will regularly report on updates of the situation.

The Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives said that the government has tirelessly worked to relieve sufferings of the people. We are facing the situation that resulted from the many tropical storms in the region, and ultimately resulting in the current situation, said the Minister. The floods are able to hold the overflow, so there is no need for worry. Amphor Popisai and Chiangsaen, for example have reduced water levels already. In addition, about 400-500 cub.m.of water flow out to the open sea daily. The provinces of Singburi, Angthong, and Ayudhya all have signs for receding flood levels. The water from Klong Rangsit will be released to the Chaopraya River as a buffer canal to hold off extra water that might come. The water will slowly be diverted towards the Chao Praya River. As of now, the sea levels are still high, but we are still able to divert the waters effectively. A large flow of water from Nakorn Sawan are now out to sea. There are still remaining water, and therefore this must be kept under watch. The Minister also thanked the people of Klong 8, Klong 9, and Klong 10 areas who have supported the diversion of water successfully. On the 28th, 29th, and 30th of October, there is expected to be high levels of sea water because of the tide. The public is encouraged not to tamper with the barriers preventing the water inundation. The existing barriers should also be reinforced, so as to aid in the relief efforts.

There are questions regarding whether Bangkok will be affected by the floods.There will not be any water affecting the major parts of Bangkok. However, areas of Nongjok and Ladkrabang should keep an eye out for any signs of water, since the flows currently cannot be diverted to the Bangpakong River. Suvharnabhumi International Airport and the Airport Link railways will remain safe from the effects of the flood. The government also expressed appreciation for donations and support in the flood relief efforts. The water diversion will be done quickly, and the Flood Relief Operation Center (FROC) will report on updates continuously.