Hat yai: Deputy Prime Minister Thammanat Prompao addressed the flooding crisis in Hat Yai, ordering the expedited drainage of water into Songkhla Lake and setting up a food pantry to care for over 10,000 people, including their pets, to prevent malnutrition. He emphasized that Prime Minister Anutin would not abandon the people.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives Lt. Col. Thammanat Prompao traveled to Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, to monitor the flooding situation. The area has been experiencing heavy rain since November 19th, causing water from Khao Kho Hong, along with water from Khlong Samsip Met and other canals, to overflow onto all roads in the city center, particularly in the inner economic district. Shops, houses, and surrounding communities have been widely affected.
During a visit to the area, Lt. Col. Thammanat stated that if there is no further rainfall, the drainage situation should prevent the suffering of Hat Yai residents from worsening further, and he expects the water level to gradually decrease. He also stated that the Mayor of Hat Yai City reported that over 10,000 residents are experiencing food shortages. He has ordered the Royal Irrigation Department and agencies under the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives to urgently set up food pantries to assist residents, with completion expected by this evening.
Lt. Col. Thammanat added that Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, will also visit the area today and will hold a meeting to discuss the situation. He himself will be in the advance unit to monitor water management. He confirmed that water drainage is operating normally, but due to continued rainfall, flooding remains in many areas.
Lt. Col. Thammanat also stated that regarding the severely damaged schools, such as Ban Khlong Wa School and Thaweerat Ratsadon School, he has ordered Prof. Dr. Narumon Pinyosinwat, Minister of Education, and administrators to urgently provide assistance to affected teachers, parents, and students.
"The government, under the supervision of Prime Minister Anutin, and me, as the person in charge of the Royal Irrigation Department, will expedite the drainage of water into Songkhla Lake. Regarding pets, I have coordinated with the Department of Livestock Development to ensure food is available to both affected people and pets. I would like to encourage the people of Hat Yai to persevere and reassure you that the Prime Minister will not abandon you," said Lt. Col. Thammanat.
During his visit, Lt. Col. Thammanat led officials from the Royal Irrigation Department and a 10-wheel truck to the area to facilitate the evacuation of residents and patients from flooded areas to provide urgent relief.