Taphan hin: Anutin Charnvirakul, the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, led a team to Taphan Hin District in Phichit Province to oversee flood relief efforts and extend support to affected residents. He assured the public that the government is committed to accelerating the first round of compensation payments within the coming week, while also acknowledging that the initial 9,000 baht payment may not suffice to cover the extensive damage.
According to Thai News Agency, Anutin, accompanied by several high-ranking officials, including Mr. Sakda Wichiensin, Deputy Minister of Interior, and Mr. Worachot Sukonkhachorn, Deputy Minister of Public Health, visited the Taphan Hin Witthayakhan Municipality School to assess the situation. The visit included coordination with local government agencies and administrative organizations to provide necessary assistance to the flood-affected residents.
The team, which included Ms. Thaniya Naiphinij, Governor of Phichit Province, and Lt. Gen. Worathep Bunya, Commander of the Third Army Region, among others, gathered to express solidarity with the local community. Anutin emphasized the importance of patience as the flood situation improves with the conclusion of the rainy season, and reassured the public that the government will not overlook their needs.
Anutin has tasked Mr. Paradorn Prisananantakul, Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office, with collaborating with the Budget Bureau and relevant agencies to enhance assistance measures. He urged residents in Taphan Hin District to register with the district office to ensure they receive the allocated relief funds, which will be transferred by the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation.
The government has initiated the “Kon La Khrueng Plus” program, designed to stimulate the economy by providing 200 baht per day for spending, with the government contributing half of each transaction. Additionally, a monthly supplement to the state welfare card will increase the allowance from 300 to 2,000 baht, facilitating essential purchases for the New Year.
Anutin also addressed the crucial role of Village Health Volunteers in providing first aid and monitoring the health of those affected by the floods. He underscored the need for vigilance concerning electrical safety and advised residents to relocate temporarily if necessary.
In response to the floods, Anutin highlighted the government’s commitment to developing a robust drainage system and infrastructure improvements to prevent future incidents. This includes plans for water management solutions like diverting excess water into Bueng Si Fai and ensuring efficient drainage to the Gulf of Thailand.
The Phichit governor reported that the recent tropical storms had severely impacted the region, with 13,961 homes and 34,449 rai of agricultural land affected. In Taphan Hin District alone, 1,033 households and 1,349 rai of agricultural land suffered from flooding. Despite the challenges, collaborative efforts have been made to provide relief and restore normalcy to the affected communities.