As we reported yesterday, due to the ongoing flooding in Thailand, Sony and other manufacturers like Toshiba (a total of 47 companies actually) who have their factories located in Bangkadi Industrial Park in Pathum Thani’s Muang district have been forced to close down operations until the water begins to recede. The timing couldn’t have been worse for Sony, who was set for a global launch of their highly anticipated NEX-7 and Alpha A65 and A77. It could be months before the factories are able to be operational again.

 “The initial damage is estimated at 30 billion baht. It will take about a month for the floodwaters to recede and then at least three months to rehabilitate the park,” said Thawatchai Ung-ampornpilai, the mayor of Bangkadi municipality. 

According to teams on the ground there, floodwaters are almost 4 metres deep in certain parts of the site, making it impassible to all vehicles. With the Prapa Canal now fully breached, all authorities can do is wait till the water begins to withdraw from the area before any further action can be taken. This leaves Sony’s operations crippled, as they cannot even begin to assess the damage, let alone begin any form of repair. Flooded streets, however, will not be Sony’s only obstacle as they will need permission to re-enter the area after all flood water has been receded and authorities deem it safe to return.

Discuss:

With potential delays to the NEX-7, A65 and A77 production, will you look at other cameras for your purchase or will you hold out till Sony is able to produce more?

[Via BangkokPost]