Bangkok: “Trinuch” Thienthong, the Minister of Labor, has announced comprehensive relief measures focusing on the rehabilitation of jobs and immediate compensation for the victims of the recent floods in the southern regions of the country. The Ministry of Labor is set to assist approximately 300,000 employees severely impacted by the disaster.
According to Thai News Agency, the flooding this year has devastated 12 provinces, affecting 105 districts, 4,523 sub-districts, and over 740,000 households. The calamity has resulted in nearly 2 million people being affected, with 17 confirmed fatalities. The floods have also impacted 22,988 businesses, which employ over 309,368 individuals, including 205,783 social security insured persons.
To address these challenges, the Ministry of Labor has coordinated with five local labor groups to provide immediate relief. Efforts include evacuating affected individuals, transporting them to safety, and setting up kitchens to distribute lunch boxes. Post-flood recovery measures are being implemented, encompassing urgent employment opportunities, vocational training, support for home-based workers, and repairs to essential items such as electrical appliances, vehicles, and agricultural machinery. The Labor Safety and Rights Fund is also providing consultations on loan options.
In response to employment disruptions, the Department of Labor Protection and Welfare (DLPW) has enacted measures allowing employees to take time off without it being classified as leave, ensuring they continue to receive their regular wages. Additionally, a disaster recovery loan program has been introduced, enabling cooperative members to access loans of up to 20 million baht per cooperative at a low interest rate of 2% per year, with a repayment period capped at five years. Affected individuals are encouraged to reach out to any Ministry of Labor office or contact the hotline at 1506 for assistance.