Bangkok: The Prime Minister showcased his boating skills and engaged with flood-affected villagers during a visit aimed at distributing relief supplies and assessing the situation. The visit also included the distribution of relief bags and reassurances regarding the evacuation of vulnerable groups.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, along with his entourage, traveled to Bang Chani Subdistrict in Bang Ban District to meet with flood victims and distribute relief packages. Before boarding a boat, the Prime Minister delivered supplies to a resident and purchased pickled mangoes. He also addressed residents’ concerns about recurring flooding, noting that while solutions exist, budget constraints remain a significant challenge. The villagers expressed their support by wishing him a second term and cheering on the rowing team.
The Prime Minister and his ministers navigated flooded areas by boat, providing relief supplies and engaging with affected residents. During the visit, a villager gifted Mr. Anutin bananas and cold water, which he shared with his delegation. The Prime Minister noted the high morale among villagers and emphasized the need to expedite water drainage projects, assuring that current conditions do not necessitate evacuations as families are caring for the elderly.
Mr. Anutin shared his childhood experience of rowing boats in Nakhon Pathom Province, humorously adding a southern dialect phrase. He stressed the importance of monitoring flood-prone areas like Mae Sai District and acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the Royal Thai Army Engineering Department in constructing flood barriers along the Sai River.
Local MP and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, Mr. Surasak Pancharoenworakun, highlighted the critical nature of this year’s flooding, although noting that water levels have decreased since 2022. The Prime Minister, joined by Deputy Minister of the Interior Mr. Sakda Wichiensilp and Permanent Secretary Mr. Arsit Sampantharat, participated in rowing efforts alongside the community.
Before leaving, Mr. Anutin responded to a resident’s concerns about recurring flooding, acknowledging the hardships faced by the Bang Ban community. He was also presented with local delicacies, which he promised to enjoy before returning to Bangkok.
In a final gesture of support, Mr. Anutin encouraged a mobile medical unit and purchased a vendor’s entire pot of noodles to distribute to the community, ensuring no charges were incurred by the residents.