Hat yai: The Prime Minister has taken decisive action following the recent flooding in Hat Yai by assigning Sakda Wichiensilp to command the recovery efforts in the area. He expressed gratitude to all sectors for their dedication to addressing the disaster, noting that the collective efforts have been in alignment with the royal vision. The Prime Minister has instructed the Department of Public Works and Town and Country Planning to expedite damage assessments and provide compensation based on the extent of damage rather than a per capita basis. Additionally, he urged the Ministry of Public Health to focus on mental health and communicable diseases.
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister, along with key government officials including Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul and Deputy Prime Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, held a meeting with stakeholders to discuss the rehabilitation plan at the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Region 12. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of cooperation among all parties to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the flooding in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province.
The Prime Minister announced that the state of emergency in Songkhla Province has been lifted due to the improvement in the situation, with the disaster response level reduced from Level 4 to Level 3. He thanked all parties involved, including the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and various government officials, for their effective management and cooperation during the crisis. The focus now shifts to recovery, with particular attention to restoring water, electricity, and addressing food shortages.
Efforts to manage waste accumulation are ongoing, with an emphasis on nighttime collection to clear the substantial debris left by the floods. The Ministry of Public Health is actively monitoring potential health risks, ensuring the availability of medicines, and providing mental health support to affected residents. Traffic routes are being cleared, and compensation for home damages is being prioritized based on detailed assessments rather than lump sum payments.
The establishment of a National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command has been announced, utilizing the resources of the District 12 Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Center in Songkhla Province. Sakda Wichiensilp has been appointed as the situation commander, with Phasakon Boonrak acting as Area Commander. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of continued cooperation to fully restore the region.
During a recent audience with Their Majesties the King and Queen, a generous donation of 100 million baht was made to Hat Yai Hospital from royal funds. This contribution will aid in restoring the hospital’s capabilities and providing essential services to the community. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the royal support and highlighted the ongoing efforts to maximize the benefit of these funds.
At a meeting with the Songkhla Tourism Industry Association, concerns were raised about the need for government assistance in providing clean water to hotels used as shelters. The Prime Minister assured that measures will be taken to address this issue promptly. Reporters noted that Minister Anutin Charnvirakul showed signs of a sore throat during his presentation, which he acknowledged in response to media inquiries.