BANGKOK, Thailand – Minister Attached to the Prime Minister’s Office Supamas Isarabhakdi has instructed the Public Relations Department (PRD) to coordinate flood relief efforts in six provinces, connecting verified local needs with support from both the private sector and government. This directive supports Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s policy of rapid, targeted distribution of essential supplies, especially food and drinking water. As a central hub, the PRD will collect real-time data on local needs and direct private-sector contributions to avoid redundancies and ensure aid reaches the most critical areas.
The first batch of supplies, including meat, eggs, rice, and fresh vegetables, has been delivered to local foundations running central kitchens in Nan. The Minister, after consulting with Deputy Minister of Interior Jeseth Thaiseth, emphasized the importance of these kitchens since many residents lost their cooking equipment in the floods. The PRD will provide regular updates on needed ingredients and packaging to maintain ongoing support for these communal kitchens.
Provincial public relations offices will collect daily requests from shelters and central kitchens and share current needs with the public. This approach aims to prevent oversupply of certain items and shortages of essential goods. As of August 21, 2026, flooding had affected 78,241 people across 10 provinces, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. Although water levels are receding in some areas, Nan, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Uttaradit, and Ubon Ratchathani remain affected. The JIC model used in Nan will be expanded to these provinces. Residents and donors can monitor updates on NBT2HD, Radio Thailand FM 92.5 MHz, and official PRD platforms. Those wishing to donate supplies may contact the Nan Provincial Hall donation center at 054-716-228. (NNT)
