NAKHON SI THAMMARAT: The discharge of water from Khlong Katun reservoir has revealed the ruins of houses, temples and other structures destroyed by major flooding and mudslides about 30 years ago.
The Irrigation Department has been releasing water from the reservoir in Phibun district to make room for water during the coming southern wet season. With 60% of the water released, the falling level has revealed the ruins of houses and other structures, to the surprise of people visiting the area.
Some said it was like seeing an underwater community emerge.
Many took photos, saying the ruins reminded them of the glory days of the old community, before it was ravaged by the mud flood. The construction of Khlong Katun reservoir began in late 1988, shortly after the community was destroyed, and the water has never since fallen to such a level.
The reservoir was built at the site on the advice of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej (King Rama IX), after major flooding had triggered mudslides from nearby mountains that devastated Ban Katun villages Moo 1 and Moo 8 in tambon Katun of Phibun district on the night of Nov 22, 1988. (continues below)
This ruined crematorium emerged as the level of Khlong Katun reservoir fell to only 40% of its capacity. (Photo by Nujaree Raekrun)
Big trees were uprooted and many houses hit by the mud. More than 300 people were reported missing or confirmed dead. Many bodies could not be found - causing a great loss to Phibun district.
Siripong Nurat, secretary to the mayor of tambon Katun municipality, said people from the province and other nearby southern provinces have come to the reservoir to see the ruins of the old community since news of its re-emergence spread.
The influx of visitors provided a welcome income for nearby residents and resorts, boosting the local economy.
Irrigation officials would continue discharging water for another eight days, Mr Siripong said.
A child looks at the ruins of houses and other structures that have emerged as Khlong Kathun reservoir in Nakhon Si Thammarat's Phibun district is drained to make way for more water during the coming southern wet season.(Photo by Nujaree Raekrun)
(Photo by Nujaree Raekrun)
video taken from Tong Boonthrong Facebook page.