BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed agencies to speed up flood relief payments and recovery efforts while redeploying personnel and equipment to areas where assistance is still needed. Government Spokesperson Ekkapob Pianpises reported on October 6 that resources should be continually adjusted to on-the-ground conditions to ensure support reaches affected communities without interruption.
In areas where floodwater has receded, agencies have been directed to begin cleanup and recovery, including removing mud and waste and cleaning homes and roads. Authorities must also inspect buildings, electrical and water systems, access routes, and surrounding areas before residents return, while continuing to assist those whose homes are not yet safe.
Verified lists of eligible flood victims are to be submitted promptly to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, which will coordinate payments with the Government Savings Bank. Provincial governors must track the number of recipients, amounts transferred, processing times, and any delays, and address problems quickly so relief funds reach eligible households as soon as possible.
Southern provinces have also been directed to prepare personnel, equipment, risk information, evacuation plans, and emergency resources for possible flooding. Meanwhile, Lamphun authorities will assess whether recent flooding meets the requirements for coverage under the National Disaster Insurance program, including whether affected locations have been formally declared disaster areas. (NNT)
