Three ministers visit flood-affected areas to assess situation
A meeting was held with Sukhothai provincial authorities after flooding in areas along the Yom River
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, together with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Phumtham Wechayachai and Thammanat Prompao, minister of agriculture and cooperatives, visited Sukhothai province to assess the water situation and the preparations for water management and assistance to the affected residents.
Phumtham and Anutin chaired a meeting with Sukhothai provincial authorities, and the governor reported that a large volume of water flowing from the north had caused overflow and erosion of the riverbanks, leading to flooding in areas along the Yom River.
The flooding has affected seven districts, 49 sub-districts, 263 villages, and 7,873 households, with 28 roads damaged and around 43,747 rai of agricultural land expected to suffer damage.
Phumtham said the water level has begun to decrease and should return to normal soon. However, since the rainy season is not yet over, vigilance must continue. He urged all relevant departments to coordinate closely to monitor and address any emerging issues.
He also asked provincial governors to remain alert in their respective areas to ensure the safety and well-being of the people and to respond effectively to any problems that arise.
He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of the Interior for its operational mechanisms and extensive network that spans from the provincial to the community and village levels, emphasising the importance of providing swift post-disaster relief and ensuring orderly assistance through integrated efforts.
Anutin proposed improvements to the approval process for the construction of disaster prevention and water management projects to enhance efficiency and ensure timely implementation.
After the meeting, they met with local residents, distributed relief packages, and helped prepare meals for those affected by the floods at the Sukhothai Provincial Hall.
They then travelled to Hat Saphan Chan Dam and Ban Khlong Hok Bat Water Gate in Sawankhalok district, Sukhothai. Later, the delegation travelled to Nakhon Sawan province to board a helicopter for an aerial survey of the water situation and agricultural areas.
They then proceeded to Chainat province to monitor the water situation at Chao Phraya Dam, which is a crucial point for water management in the Central region.
