Bangkok: Hat Yai will not be abandoned! In a decisive move, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul convened a special meeting of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) to address water management and propose a southern Thailand sandbox project. The meeting was held at Government House as part of the government's efforts to tackle economic issues through the Joint Public-Private Sector Committee for Economic Problem Solving (JPC).
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister emphasized the critical importance of preparing for and preventing flooding in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, ahead of the 2026 monsoon season. As a significant economic hub in southern Thailand, Hat Yai's safety and preparedness are seen as vital to maintaining confidence among local stakeholders and could serve as a blueprint for other provinces in the region.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister outlined the government's commitment to integrated water management, highlighting the need for immediate planning to prevent a repeat of the 2025 flood damage. Emphasizing efficiency, he noted that effective long-term strategies are more cost-effective than short-term relief efforts. Initial funding will come from government agencies, with central budget allocations reserved for urgent needs.
A key part of the strategy involves communication, ensuring that the public is well-informed in advance of potential flood events. Detailed plans for evacuation and assistance must be clear and widely disseminated, minimizing the impact on affected communities. This approach, the Prime Minister argued, does not require significant funding but can greatly reduce damage.
The meeting included a report from the National Water Resources Management Committee (NWRC) on a master plan for flood preparedness and the Songkhla Provincial Water Resources Management Committee's proposal for nine urgent projects. These projects, targeting enhancements in flood prevention infrastructure, are scheduled for completion before the rainy season and aim to protect key economic areas. The projects include infrastructure improvements such as dredging, equipment procurement, and the installation of automated systems.
Mr. Paradorn Prisnanantakul, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, was tasked with coordinating with the NWRC and the Budget Bureau to align plans and budgets with the needs of the Songkhla community. The Ministry of Interior will lead efforts to secure necessary funding and coordinate with relevant agencies to integrate transportation and water management initiatives.
Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, reiterated the government's focus on disaster preparedness, aiming to mitigate natural disasters' effects on lives, property, and the local economy. She stressed the importance of sustainable water management systems in building public confidence.
Additionally, the meeting appointed Mr. Veerapong Prapha, Thailand's Trade Representative, as the spokesperson for the JPC, reinforcing the collaborative effort between public and private sectors in addressing economic challenges.