Thailand grants civil servants two-day holiday over flood disruption

Thailand's cabinet on Sunday approved Sept 28 and 29 as special holidays for civil servants in Bangkok and three surrounding provinces due to heavy rainfall, a move that could affect the timing of a court ruling on electoral ballots used in February's election.

"The measure aims to reduce travel and ease traffic disruptions for the public," it said, adding that important official business scheduled during the holidays may continue as deemed appropriate by their heads.

The move could, however, delay a court decision over electoral ballots used in February's election -- which could put the election results in doubt, though the court has not made any announcement on whether the timing of the verdict would be changed.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration declared the capital a disaster-affected area on Saturday after nearly 300mm (12 inches) of rain fell over 48 hours, leading to flooding on major roads that left some cars partly submerged.

Floodwater receded on Sunday as rainfall eased, but some residents remained stranded in their homes.

FP/R