Bangkok: "Supamas" has instructed the "Department of Public Relations" to serve as the central information hub in response to flooding across six provinces, facilitating the provision of raw materials for central kitchens through private sector partnerships.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Suphamas Isarabhakdi, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, emphasized the Department of Public Relations' role in expanding the efforts of the Nan Province Flood Prevention and Mitigation Incident Command Center (JIC Nan). This expansion will see the center evolve from merely reporting situations to acting as a central hub for information coordination. The department will gather needs from affected areas and channel them to private sector partners and support organizations to ensure the efficient delivery of essential supplies. The initial phase has focused on coordinating the supply of meat, eggs, rice, vegetables, and condiments to local foundations operating central kitchens in Nan Province, with plans to extend this to other provinces based on situational demands.
This initiative aligns with the government's policy under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who has emphasized the urgent need for aid delivery, particularly food and drinking water, to flood-affected populations. State communication agencies have been tasked with connecting government, private sector, and public efforts to ensure aid reaches those in need without duplication.
The first delivery to the central kitchens included chicken, pork, eggs, rice, cooking oil, seasonings, and vegetables. However, the outdoor kitchens still require a constant supply of chicken, rice, vegetables, seasonings, and food containers to meet ongoing demands.
Ms. Suphamas has been in close collaboration with Mr. Jetseth Thaiseth, Deputy Minister of Interior, overseeing flood relief. The central kitchens are essential during this period, as many homes have been damaged, and villagers lack the means to cook.
'I have ensured that raw materials and essential supplies are delivered swiftly by coordinating with the private sector,' said Ms. Suphamas. 'The Department of Public Relations serves as a central hub, connecting the needs of the affected areas with those willing to support them.'
The Department of Public Relations is tasked with ongoing reporting on water situations and needs during broadcasts. Provincial offices in affected areas will compile daily needs reports and update those wishing to assist, preventing surpluses and addressing shortages. The JIC in Nan will be expanded to other provinces still grappling with the situation. As of August 21, 2026, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation reported that 10 provinces have been affected, impacting 25,058 households and 78,241 individuals. The situation remains critical in six provinces: Nan, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Uttaradit, and Ubon Ratchathani. Recovery efforts have begun in regions where water levels have receded. Donations can be sent to the flood relief donation center in Nan Province at the Provincial Hall's lobby.
Ms. Suphamas expressed gratitude towards the private sector, foundations, volunteers, and the Thai public for their support. She emphasized the importance of relying on official government sources for accurate information to ensure aid reaches those in need efficiently. 'The government stands by the people until normalcy is restored,' she stated.
The public is encouraged to stay informed through the Public Relations Department, NBT2HD channel, Radio Thailand FM 92.5 MHz, the Public Relations Department Facebook page, and the Nan Provincial Public Relations Office Facebook page. JIC Nan will provide updates twice daily and issue warnings for heavy rain, flash floods, and landslides as necessary.