Pattani: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, visited Pattani Province to assess the post-flood recovery efforts. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul emphasized the need for comprehensive support to households affected by the floods and distributed over 700 relief packages. The visit was attended by Ms. Patimoh Sadiyamu, Governor of Pattani Province, Dr. Ratchapong Chukaew, Secretary to the Minister of Transport, Mr. Kritphet Chaichuai, Director-General of the Marine Department, and other local transport agency officials.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pipat noted that the country has experienced unusually heavy rainfall this year, and weather forecasts suggest another wave of rain could occur this month. He urged residents to remain vigilant and assured that the government is committed to providing the fastest possible assistance and recovery efforts under the supervision of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
The provincial governor reported that the flooding situation in Pattani has been successfully managed, with water levels at all stations falling below the riverbank, particularly at the Pattani River mouth. Efforts are underway to drain water back to the sea, and the province has launched a major rehabilitation program to clean homes, roads, and public utilities.
Mr. Pipat highlighted Pattani as a "model for rapid recovery," thanks to the efforts of the province, the Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO), local administrative bodies, military units, and government support. Despite impacting over 192,000 households, recovery efforts in Pattani have been swifter than in many other areas.
In terms of financial assistance, the province is expediting compensation disbursements of 9,000 baht to over 120,000 households, covering around 65% of those affected. Further damage assessments will ensure that repairs, up to a maximum of 49,000 baht per home, are completed swiftly.
Mr. Pipat also addressed the Ministry of Transport's role, instructing relevant departments to prioritize repairs to roads, bridges, and infrastructure, as well as dredging waterways and river mouths to improve future water drainage. He encouraged the public to report any overlooked issues to local leaders for government attention.
During his visit, Mr. Pipat toured Pakaharang Subdistrict, a crucial flood-affected area, to support elderly and bedridden patients, delivering relief packages directly to their homes. He instructed provincial officials to communicate any further assistance needs to the Prime Minister for immediate action.