Bangkok:Residents affected by recent flooding can now apply for relief funds through two main channels the government's mobile app and district offices.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Governor Thawida Kamolwech announced that the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is fast-tracking assistance for flood victims. This includes expediting compensation payments, deploying medical units and supplies, and coordinating with the Office of the Insurance Commission to help with personal vehicle damages. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has outlined criteria for residential repairs, specifying that assistance applies to those residing in their homes.
Applications for aid can be submitted through the government's mobile app, which is separate from the BMA's regulations. Those who apply online must use both systems, while offline applicants at district offices can process applications simultaneously if all documents are complete. The relief funds aim to alleviate suffering, covering various flooding scenarios, and have seen approximately 230,000 households reporting hardship through the application.
The BMA is also converting shelters into data entry points to assist those unfamiliar with online systems. Volunteers will help citizens submit their applications. Residents visiting shelters should bring necessary documents to ease the application process. The precise timeframe for processing applications remains uncertain due to the high volume of affected individuals.
Efforts are underway to streamline damage assessment and verification processes. Teams have been deployed to assess flood damage quickly, and residents are encouraged to document damages and repairs. The BMA is simplifying procedures to expedite inspections and considering community representatives' involvement to speed up processes.
Tenants can apply for assistance if they meet criteria, with specific provisions for temporary accommodation and occupational equipment damages. For medical treatment related to flood injuries, assistance is available with appropriate documentation.
The BMA is also responding to complaints about service issues at district offices and plans to improve communication and customer service. They are compiling FAQs to guide citizens through the assistance application process. Additional staffing will be deployed to manage high volumes of applications at district offices and shelters will serve as assistance points for online applications.
Discussions with the Office of the Insurance Commission are ongoing to explore further assistance measures for vehicle damages not covered under current criteria. The BMA is committed to expediting the application process and adjusting service hours to accommodate the needs of flood-affected residents.