Songkhla: "Saraphet" indicates that this cabinet meeting outside of Bangkok must go beyond simply solving immediate problems; the flood recovery budget is already moving forward. "Saraphet" highlights the need for the government to address both current and future challenges in the region.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sanphet Bunyamanee, Deputy Minister of Transport, discussed the preparations for the official Cabinet meeting outside of Bangkok, known as the "Cabinet on Tour," in Songkhla Province. He mentioned that the meeting presents a significant opportunity for the government to consider both immediate issues and the long-term future of the area.
In terms of flood recovery, the government acted promptly without waiting for the mobile cabinet meeting. A central budget exceeding 843 million baht was approved for the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, specifically for the Royal Irrigation Department, to repair and restore 67 irrigation projects affected by the floods. These projects span across Songkhla, Satun, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat provinces, including significant projects like the repair of the R.1 drainage canal in Songkhla. The central budget was approved on July 21st, the Budget Bureau gave its nod on July 27th, and funds were disbursed to the Royal Irrigation Department on July 31st. Procurement processes are currently underway in each affected region.
For Hat Yai, the experiences from the recent floods necessitate the development of systems to enhance the city's preparedness and resilience. The government is also focusing on the comprehensive development of the five provinces: Songkhla, Satun, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat, which are economically interconnected through trade, tourism, agriculture, transportation, and border trade.
Mr. Sanphet stressed the importance of ensuring that the Cabinet meeting outside the city yields tangible outcomes for the people. It is crucial to expedite the urgent matters that have already been approved. The government's visit to the area aims not only to address current issues but also to establish a foundation for the future of Hat Yai, Songkhla, and the five southern border provinces simultaneously.