Politics
Sukhumvit Households Face 1,200-Baht Yearly Levy for Drainage Upgrades
Sukhumvit households face a potential 1,200-baht yearly increase under the proposed levy to fund local drainage upgrades, a structure that differs from the flat-rate model used in adjacent districts.
How we reported this
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration will hold a local referendum on 15 August 2026 asking Sukhumvit residents to approve or reject a three-year property levy dedicated to drainage and footpath repairs. The measure applies to all rateable properties within the Sukhumvit district boundaries from Soi 1 to Soi 71.
National legislation passed in 2024 expanded the scope for district-level referendums on infrastructure funding. The change followed repeated flooding complaints logged with the BMA in 2025, when 312 incidents were recorded along Sukhumvit Road alone. The ballot will be conducted at 28 polling stations located at schools and community centres.
Comparison with Neighbouring Districts
Under the same national rules, the Huai Khwang district referendum last year used a flat annual fee capped at 800 baht per household. Sukhumvit’s proposal instead ties the levy to property assessed value, producing an average bill of 1,200 baht. Local advocates note the difference stems from Sukhumvit’s higher commercial property density, which the legislation allows districts to factor into calculations.
Residents in Sukhumvit Soi 24 and Soi 55 would see the new charge appear on their 2027 rates notice if approved. The funds are projected to cover replacement of 4.8 kilometres of ageing drainage pipes along the main road, according to the BMA’s 2026 infrastructure schedule. Similar pipe replacement in the Phra Khanong district cost 48 million baht last year and was completed in nine months.
Next Steps for Voters
Eligible voters must register at their local district office by 25 July 2026. The BMA will mail information booklets containing the exact levy formula and project list by 1 August. Results are scheduled to be certified within 10 days of the poll and will determine whether the levy appears on the 2027 rates bill.