Mae Sai: Anutin Charnvirakul, Minister of Interior, has announced that the flooding situation in Mae Sai is under control, with all available resources being deployed to assist affected areas.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul reported that the flood situation in Mae Sai District, Chiang Rai Province, has been managed since Friday. Personnel from both administrative and military sectors have been mobilized, with the Director-General of the Royal Thai Army Engineering Department present on-site to help mitigate the flooding. Assistance has been provided, and the situation remains stable without the need to declare a disaster zone. The governor and the Director-General of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation are actively managing the situation, with the latter advised to remain in Chiang Rai to oversee ongoing and future efforts.
Anutin emphasized that neighboring provinces like Chiang Mai have also been instructed to take preventive measures, such as removing blockages from water passages, to ensure smooth water drainage. He noted that despite heavy rainfall, effective drainage could prevent significant flooding, allowing water to flow to the Bhumibol Dam efficiently.
On Saturday, May 24, with the Prime Minister abroad, urgent orders were issued out of concern for the northern flood situation. The Prime Minister's Secretary-General communicated with Anutin to offer support from the central government if needed. Additionally, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Phumtham Vejjayachai checked in from the southern border provinces to ensure there were no obstacles in providing aid or compensation to those affected.
Anutin reassured officials that the situation is manageable and does not yet require a disaster declaration. Assistance has been rendered to alleviate the people's suffering, focusing on prevention as intermittent rain is expected to continue. Preparations are underway to ensure flood barriers and dams are completed by June, and efforts to dredge pipes and clear waterways are being expedited to enhance drainage capacity compared to last year.