Bangkok: Four political parties have submitted an urgent motion to address the flooding issue in Nan province. "Teng" has called on the government to revamp the early warning system, empower local authorities to activate cell broadcasts, and establish a command center to integrate all sectors, thereby eliminating fragmented efforts.
According to Thai News Agency, the House of Representatives meeting, chaired by Mr. Lertsak Pattanachaikul, the Second Deputy Speaker, saw Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, a Member of Parliament from the People's Party and leader of the opposition, propose an urgent oral motion. He requested the House of Representatives to study water management systems to address flooding crises and implement urgent recovery and relief measures for affected areas, enabling government action.
Additionally, members of Parliament from other political parties have submitted similar motions. Among them are Mr. Chanathip Supasiri, MP for Phrae from the Bhumjaithai Party; Mr. Prasit Notha, MP for Nan from the Kla Tham Party; and Ms. Natthida Thepsutin, list MP from the Pheu Thai Party.
Mr. Nattapong emphasized the importance of not only immediate relief but also preventive measures to avoid recurring floods, citing recent events in Nan province. Fieldwork in Pua District revealed that residents anticipated the flooding since 2024 but were caught unprepared by the worst flash floods in a century, attributed to a "rain bomb" phenomenon. This situation calls for an adjustment in government warning methods and emergency response plans.
Residents near a dam in Nan province reported that the structure exacerbated flood damage by eroding riverbanks and obstructing water drainage during flash floods. Mr. Nattapong stressed the need for comprehensive water management that includes water utilization, wastewater management, and drainage planning.
He pointed out that while the cell broadcast alarm system is effective, it is insufficient. He suggested empowering local agencies to activate cell broadcast alerts to minimize future losses. He also questioned the water management plan's effectiveness in districts such as Tha Wang Pha, Phu Piang, and Mueang, where water level predictions were inaccurate, and preparation time was limited.
Mr. Nattapong highlighted the need for centralized disaster management using GIS mapping technology to identify vulnerable areas and coordinate rescue efforts. He noted the lack of a centralized command center in Nan province for integrated response efforts.
The government's requirement for documentation for compensation has caused distress among affected villagers. Mr. Nattapong called for quick and direct compensation disbursement to address the losses of those affected by the flooding.
He also emphasized the importance of GIS and Geocoding technology for categorizing affected individuals and facilitating compensation payments. Additionally, he advocated for registering equipment to enable efficient resource use during disasters.
Mr. Nattapong urged the government to support the passage of two laws: the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act and the Budget Procedures Act, to ensure effective budget allocations for disaster management. He also called for budget allocation to improve the Thong Noi weir in Nan province to enhance Nan River basin management.
"Even if the relevant agencies have good water management plans, if the budgeting system fails and different agencies work haphazardly on projects without coordinating the big picture, the flooding problem will definitely continue," Mr. Natthapong stated.