Thailand’s cabinet approved Sept. 28 and 29 as special holidays for civil servants in Bangkok and three surrounding provinces after heavy rainfall caused flooding. The measure is intended to reduce travel and traffic disruptions, while essential official business may continue at the discretion of agency heads. The holidays could delay a court decision on electoral ballots used in February’s election, a ruling that could place the election results in doubt, although the court has not said whether its timetable will change. Bangkok was declared a disaster-affected area after nearly 300 mm of rain fell in 48 hours. Floodwater receded as rainfall eased, but some residents remained stranded at home.