Patong:Phuket The Deputy Minister of Interior, Mr. Jetseth Thaiseth, visited Patong in Phuket Province to oversee relief efforts for landslide victims and to address ongoing issues related to insurance claims and disaster prevention.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Thaiseth's visit focused on resolving challenges faced by residents in registering for compensation from insurance companies. The government has provided insurance coverage, but some citizens are struggling with the application process and eligibility criteria. Mr. Thaiseth emphasized the importance of expediting the disbursement of the initial 10,000 baht installment for immediate relief, ensuring that funds are quickly transferred to affected individuals' bank accounts.
During the visit, Mr. Thaiseth was accompanied by local officials, including Mr. Suwit Phansengiam and Mr. Romdon Haji Awae, Deputy Governors of Phuket Province, and Mrs. Lalita Maneesri, Mayor of Patong Municipality. They discussed the ongoing efforts to remove mudslide debris, restore damaged areas, and provide assistance to affected residents.
Mr. Thaiseth highlighted the necessity of improving the landslide warning system in Phuket due to the province's susceptibility to heavy rainfall, flash floods, and landslides. He mentioned plans for the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation to allocate a budget in 2027 for the installation of monitoring equipment and warning systems, particularly in high-risk, densely populated, and economically important areas.
Additionally, discussions were held regarding the fairness in lease agreements between landlords and tenants affected by the floods. It was proposed that lease conditions explicitly outline eligibility for compensation and repair responsibilities to prevent future disputes.
Meanwhile, Patong Municipality is actively engaged in recovery efforts, deploying around 100 officials and volunteers to clear mud and debris and clean roads affected by the floods. The municipality is also registering residents for flood relief assistance until November 6, 2026, at the Patong Municipality Senior Citizen Club Center, requiring necessary documentation for the process.