Hat yai: The Prime Minister held a meeting with the private sector to plan for the rapid restoration of Hat Yai City. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, along with his entourage, arrived at the Buri Sriphu Hotel in Hat Yai District to discuss plans with Songkhla business operators, the Songkhla Chamber of Commerce, and the business sector. He emphasized the need for immediate remedial measures to provide swift relief to the people, highlighting the importance of understanding the actual situation on the ground. Anutin stressed the government’s role in restoring and providing relief, focusing on expedited assistance efforts.
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister highlighted the recent Cabinet approval of a flood relief package amounting to 9,000 baht per household. Songkhla Province has already registered 520,000 people, and the government is working to ensure the rapid transfer of funds. Administrative officials have been instructed to address issues related to rental housing, as confusion persists about the distribution of relief funds between homeowners and tenants. In cases where tenants lack rental documents, proof of water and electricity payments will be considered sufficient for receiving relief funds.
The Prime Minister also discussed zero-percent interest loan relief measures, emphasizing the need to view these as loans rather than borrowing, given the absence of interest charges. Two types of interest-free loans are available: six-month survival loans and one-year home repair loans. Anutin is negotiating with Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanpraphat to extend the loan period to one year, further aiding the recovery efforts in Hat Yai City.