"Phumtham" reveals that the Prime Minister will call a meeting to solve the flooding problem in Chiang Rai tomorrow afternoon (12 Sept.) immediately after the government policy statement, emphasizing that all agencies have urgently provided assistance. Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, said about the flood situation in Chiang Rai Province that it is a matter that the government is very concerned and worried about. Initially, he sent encouragement for everyone to be safe and return to normal because at this time the government is in a vacuum and cannot perform its duties until the policy statement is made to the parliament. And when the Prime Minister finishes the policy statement, he will have the power to give orders. The Prime Minister has assigned Dr. Prommin Lertsuridej, Secretary-General to the Prime Minister, to call a meeting of relevant agencies tomorrow afternoon (September 12) at the Parliament. He has heard that there has been damage in Chiang Rai Province, with people trapped in their homes and high flood levels that require caution. Some areas are lacking food. He thinks that the government agencies that are directly responsible and yesterday he received a report from the Ministry of Defense that they have sent military personnel from the 37th Military Circle to help the people. The Ministry of Defense reported to him not to worry. All government agencies have provided full assistance, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and the 2nd Army. Today, all we can do is be concerned, but tomorrow (September 12) the real operation will begin. Everything will be according to the process that it will be. Even though the government did not order it, all government agencies have gone to manage it, including the Ministry of Interior and the provincial governor. As for whether the situation will improve quickly or not, Mr. Phumtham stated that he has not yet assessed it because the urgent matter is to go and help the people who are suffering first. Source: Thai News Agen cy