Chiang rai: "Warawut" has directed the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security and the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Center to provide immediate assistance to vulnerable populations affected by the recent flooding in Chiang Rai. The minister emphasized that 18 individuals, including bedridden patients and elderly residents, are already receiving medical care.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Varawut Silpa-archa, the Minister of Social Development and Human Security, reported that continuous overnight rainfall on June 26 led to severe flash floods in Wiang Chai and Phaya Mengrai districts. The flooding, with water levels reaching up to 1 meter, has caused significant distress, particularly for vulnerable groups such as young children, the elderly, the disabled, and bedridden patients. The government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, has expressed concern for those affected and has instructed local authorities and various governmental departments to offer assistance. This includes relocating important belongings to higher ground and evacuating at-risk individuals to safer areas. The government has also ensured the availability of essential goods and medical personnel around the clock and continues to provide regular updates to the public.
Mr. Varawut highlighted the Ministry's commitment to providing swift and targeted assistance to those most in need. He has tasked the Chiang Rai Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Team with collaborating closely with the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Center and the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. They are utilizing data from the Ministry's Risk Map to identify and assist vulnerable groups effectively. The Minister urged these groups to prepare emergency kits and advised the disaster response teams to prioritize safety and caution when assisting affected individuals.
Mr. Winai Kengsuwan, Chiang Rai Provincial Social Development and Human Security Officer, noted that while floodwaters have begun to recede in some areas, other regions, like Mae Pao Subdistrict, remain severely impacted. Efforts are underway to rescue stranded individuals, including the elderly and children, using boats to transport them to temporary shelters such as Wat Ban Sop Pao and local schools. The Ministry and other agencies are working diligently to extract and secure those still trapped. The medical team is currently attending to 18 individuals, as highlighted in recent news reports. The Ministry's team in Chiang Rai has already shared relevant information with provincial authorities and coordinated with disaster management agencies to plan relief efforts.
Residents impacted by the flooding and in need of immediate assistance are encouraged to contact the Center for Accelerated Public Welfare Management at the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security via their 24-hour hotline at 1300.