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Bangkok Governor Chatchart Enhances Evacuation and Disaster Response Plans

Bangkok:Governor Chatchart Sittipunt has revised the city's evacuation center strategy, urging district directors to integrate condominiums and housing estates into their emergency networks.

According to Thai News Agency, Governor Chatchart promoted the "Buddy District Model" during the 8th meeting of Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) department heads in 2026. He emphasized the importance of surveying high-risk areas and developing a new "Risk Map" to ensure quick and comprehensive relief efforts.

Governor Chatchart acknowledged the successful handling of recent floods, despite the heavier-than-expected rainfall of over 200 millimeters. He noted that only 20% of the population was affected, which was better than anticipated. However, he stressed the need for improvements, particularly in the warning system and communication networks involving community leaders and housing managers.

The governor also pointed out the necessity to enhance disaster relief center plans. Lessons from the Lat Krabang evacuation center, which faced severe flooding, prompted changes to ensure centers are well-equipped and accessible. This includes providing necessary amenities and having emergency resources ready for rapid deployment.

Chatchart directed district directors to prioritize surveys of public and private areas susceptible to flooding. This data will feed into a new Risk Map and guide improvements in infrastructure such as flood barriers and water pumps. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to repair flood-damaged roads and assist over 1 million registered households.

Bangkok has already allocated 372 million baht for public assistance and plans to request an additional 1,000 million baht. The city has also established a communication and disaster warning system to enhance crisis response, enabling district offices to inform residents promptly during emergencies.