BANGKOK, Thailand – Privy Council members have attended a meeting of the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command to review preparations for the 2026 drought and provide guidance on response measures. During the meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul in his capacity as the command’s director, the Privy Council members called for the application of royal guidance from His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great and His Majesty the King in long-term water management. They also urged agencies to ensure timely assistance for the public, with attention to vulnerable groups and communities facing water shortages.
Anutin told the meeting that the government has coordinated efforts across agencies to prepare for drought conditions, covering water for consumption and agriculture. Provincial authorities have been instructed to activate emergency response plans and coordinate closely with relevant sectors to assist affected areas. The government is also preparing water replenishment measures across 18 provinces, with about 1.99 million cubic meters of water expected to support more than 34,000 households. Satellite data and geospatial systems will be used to assess conditions, while all provinces have been directed to prepare comprehensive plans to manage drought risks. (NNT)
