Hat yai: Academics point out that after the Hat Yai floods, the government, local government, and society must work together to solve the problem systematically.
According to Thai News Agency, Assistant Professor Wanwichit Boonprong, a lecturer at the Faculty of Political Science at Rangsit University, commented on the massive flooding in Hat Yai, Songkhla Province, emphasizing that this is not the time to dwell solely on finding the guilty party, but rather to look ahead and develop systems to address the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters in the future.
Asst. Prof. Wanwichit stated that the government must accept criticism without reservation and proceed with resolving the problem as quickly as possible after the floodwaters recede. Recovery must be “systematic and urgent,” covering public health, home repairs, infrastructure, and providing compensation to all families of the deceased and affected.
The Ministry of Public Health must urgently address the mental health, stress, and health impacts of the people affected. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Interior must survey damaged homes and residences to expedite repairs and allow victims to return to their daily lives as quickly as possible. The Ministry of Transport must expedite repairs to damaged roads, signs, and traffic lights. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Finance must promptly allocate funds to provide relief to the families of the deceased and all affected households without delay.
Academics also recommend regular and rigorous “evacuation drills,” as natural disasters from now on will be more unpredictable and more severe due to climate change. Preparedness is key to mitigating future losses.
Asst. Prof. Wanwichit urged influencers, social media influencers, and all political groups to offer constructive solutions and encourage local workers, not just make things worse or blame one party alone. No one wants to see the public suffer like this, and any government will face the same test.
Academics emphasize that the massive flooding in Hat Yai “will not be the last.” All parties must work together to review lessons learned, adjust warning systems, redesign urban planning, and manage water resources effectively if the southern region’s major cities are to remain safe and resilient in the future.