Bangkok: The Prime Minister has directed all ministries to assess and potentially revise measures concerning Cambodia, with a focus on developing robust plans to support citizens residing in the seven provinces that share a border with Cambodia in case of emergencies. This directive includes preparing for various water-related situations and ensuring that affected residents are informed well in advance about any water diversions.
According to Thai News Agency, during a Cabinet meeting, Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, instructed the Minister of Defense to halt the implementation of related declarations temporarily. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has officially protested to Cambodia and if there is no satisfactory response, Thailand may consider revoking the declaration. The Minister of Defense has been tasked with taking appropriate military action if necessary and providing a comprehensive report on the situation.
The Prime Minister emphasized that all relevant ministries must reassess measures concerning Cambodia to ensure their relevance and alignment with the current situation. He also tasked the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Public Health with preparing for emergency relief operations for residents in the border provinces. This preparation includes ensuring hospitals are under control, minimizing impacts, protecting medical facilities, evacuating patients when necessary, and creating contingency plans for severe scenarios. High-risk schools, communities, and villages are also to be prepared.
On the topic of the flood situation, a report by Mr. Paradorn Prisananantakul, Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office, highlighted the need for close monitoring of water conditions over the next few days. This is particularly important as water releases from major dams like the Bhumibol Dam could affect agricultural lands and nearby homes.
The Prime Minister has tasked all relevant agencies with coordinating efforts to provide clear advance warnings and communicate effectively with those potentially affected by water diversions. This initiative aims to give residents sufficient time to prepare and safeguard their belongings. Furthermore, Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Saram has been appointed to lead the relief efforts, with Capt. Thammanat Prompao overseeing the division of responsibilities within each affected area.