Phra nakhon si ayutthaya: The Prime Minister led a crucial meeting focusing on water management, underscoring the importance of speed, teamwork, and transparency in addressing public needs.
According to Thai News Agency, the meeting, chaired by the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, was centered on water management and flood relief efforts in the Chao Phraya River basin. Held at Phak Hai Municipality, the meeting brought together key figures, including Mr. Paradorn Prisananantakul, Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office, Mr. Surasak Pancharoenworakul, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, along with provincial governors, civil servants, and relevant officials.
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of prioritizing speed in rescue operations, ensuring equipment and relief efforts reach vulnerable populations swiftly. He called for transparency from the Royal Irrigation Department and related agencies in communicating water management activities, and fairness in utilizing water catchment areas to minimize economic impact.
In the pursuit of efficient relief measures, the government has committed to swift, equitable assistance based on established criteria. Provincial governors have been tasked with expediting damage assessments to facilitate prompt budget allocation. The Prime Minister urged a shift from short-term fixes to sustainable, long-term planning, emphasizing collaboration with the Office of National Water Resources and the Royal Irrigation Department to enhance the Chao Phraya Basin water management master plan.
The Prime Minister assigned Mr. Paradorn Prisananantakul to oversee Ang Thong Province, and Mr. Surasak Pancharoenworakul to oversee Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. He encouraged all agencies to integrate their efforts, focusing on expanding drainage channels, enhancing canal capacities, and improving water retention strategies to ensure water availability during dry periods. The Prime Minister reiterated his commitment to supporting these efforts, emphasizing unity and collaboration across ministries and departments for the benefit of the people.