Wiang Kum Kam, which was the first capital of Lanna during the reign of King Mangrai before being moved to establish Chiang Mai due to flooding problems, has been called the ancient underground city for another year with flooding almost 3 meters high.

The condition of many ancient sites in Wiang Kum Kam, the underground city on the border of Chiang Mai and Saraphi districts, which was inundated by the Ping River. The water flowed in front of Wat Chedi Liam and overflowed into many ancient sites. Our reporters waded through the water and saw the condition of ancient sites, including Wat That Khao, which was completely flooded. The water level was more than 1 meter high. The large Buddha statue was almost half submerged in the water. At Wat Pu Pia, the chedi was flooded more than 1 meter high.

At Wat Ku Pa Dom, in front of Wat Ban Chedi Liam, Soi 9, the water level was over 3 meters high, only the pillars and roof of the temple were visible. The Buddha statues, the base of the pagoda, the chapel, the well, t
he gate arch, the glass wall, and the ancient sculpture of the lone figure on the stairs were completely submerged and invisible. The water level also flooded houses in the Chedi Liam Village, Village No. 1, and Chang Kham Village, Village No. 2, Tambon Tha Wang Tan, Amphoe Saraphi, Chiang Mai Province, which are in the ancient underground city area, totaling 200-300 houses. The water level was from 1 meter high to almost 2 meters in some places. Most villagers put their belongings on higher ground in their houses, but the high water level prevented them from floating above the water. All kitchenware and gas tanks were damaged, especially electrical appliances and mattresses. This year is considered more severe than in 2022, and the road to the village has been cut off. Cars cannot enter. The water level is high, and people have to wade through it. The current is still strong.

Source: Thai News Agency