Bangkok: Yotsanan Wongswasdi has been appointed as the chairman of the war room dedicated to tackling floods and droughts in northern Thailand, leading the charge in integrating all sectors for comprehensive prevention, relief, and recovery efforts.
According to Thai News Agency, the government is intensifying its water management strategies by forming regional committees to address floods and droughts, following an assessment of 1,363 flood-prone areas across the nation. Yotsanan Wongswasdi, tasked with chairing the northern region's war room, will coordinate efforts among various agencies to ensure effective monitoring, prevention, assistance, and recovery operations.
Captain Patthadarasmi Thongslueykorn, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, disclosed that Mr. Yotsanu Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, is set to chair the inaugural meeting of the Committee on Flood and Drought Prevention and Mitigation in the Northern Region. The meeting, scheduled at the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, aims to develop integrated strategies for systematically managing flood and drought challenges in the region.
The Deputy Spokesperson highlighted that this initiative aligns with the Prime Minister's Office Order dated July 14, 2026, which established four regional committees for disaster prevention and mitigation. The primary goal is to enhance disaster management collaboration, ensure swift command and control, and deliver effective responses. For the northern region, Mr. Yotsanan will lead the committee alongside representatives from key ministries, provincial governors, security agencies, and related organizations.
This organizational enhancement is crucial as Thailand monitors both flood-prone and drought-risk areas, totaling 1,807 in number. The integration of efforts across sectors is essential to manage these challenges effectively, minimizing impacts on the public and agriculture.
The committee's responsibilities encompass directing and coordinating efforts across all sectors, covering preparedness, monitoring, emergency management, and post-disaster recovery. Their mission is to provide rapid and efficient assistance to the public, aiming to reduce the adverse effects of floods and droughts.
Additionally, the committee has the mandate to oversee government agency operations within legal constraints, continuously assess situations, report findings to the government, and communicate accurate information to the public. It can also form subcommittees and working groups or seek expert advice to enhance disaster response flexibility and efficiency.
Captain Patthadarasmi emphasized the government's commitment to proactive disaster management, focusing on data integration, agency coordination, and swift decision-making to mitigate flood and drought impacts. The government remains vigilant and prepared to safeguard lives and property.