Hat yai: Deputy Prime Minister Bowornsak Uwanno has attributed the recent flooding disaster in Hat Yai to local mismanagement and inadequate maintenance of drainage systems.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Bowornsak, speaking at a seminar organized by the Local Government Development College, King Prajadhipok’s Institute, highlighted the failures of local governance in his special lecture titled “The Future of Thai Local Government and Subdistrict Administrative Organization (SAO) Elections.” He emphasized that effective management should capitalize on local resources for prompt problem-solving. The recent flooding in Hat Yai, he argued, underscores a lapse in local management practices.

Mr. Bowornsak pointed out that Hat Yai Municipality and surrounding Subdistrict Administrative Organizations failed to maintain the Phuminat Damri Canal (Khlong R.1) and allowed unauthorized structures along the waterway. Furthermore, the lack of investment in additional drainage channels exacerbated the situation. He noted the absence of a drainage system on the east side, which leaves the area vulnerable to water flow from Khao Kho Hong directly into Hat Yai. Despite significant local tax revenue, the city remains submerged, highlighting flaws in local planning and problem-solving processes.

The Deputy Prime Minister stressed the need for central government intervention, as local authorities alone seem incapable of resolving the crisis. He expressed hope that future local governance will prioritize public involvement, with SAO elections set for January 11, 2026. However, he also called for collaboration between SAOs, municipalities, Provincial Administrative Organizations, and provincial governors to prevent similar disasters in the future.