Bangkok: Entering its 13th day, clashes in Surin province continued throughout the morning. Artillery fire was still heard intermittently around Prasat Ta Kwai and Hill 350. Furthermore, the prolonged situation is beginning to affect the education of students in the area.

According to Thai News Agency, the situation in Surin Province this morning showed a deserted Chong Chom market area near the Cambodian border as residents evacuated on the first day of the conflicts. Reports indicated that aircraft were heard since midnight, accompanied by three artillery shells, though the sounds were fainter than before.

In the vicinity of Ta Kwai Castle and Hill 350, approximately three rounds of artillery support from the Thai side were observed, marking a significant decrease in clashes compared to early stages. Meanwhile, efforts to retrieve the bodies of two soldiers near Hill 350 have been ongoing for four days, with no success due to continuous frontline fighting.

The news team visited a shelter where evacuated families shared their experiences. Villagers reported engaging their children in recreational activities provided by assisting agencies to alleviate stress. Concerns were raised about the impact of the conflict on their income and the education of their children, with worries about future disruptions and increased educational expenses. Additionally, families expressed anxiety over pending bank loan payments due on January 1st, urging the government for relief measures such as loan deferment or interest rate cuts.

A citizen network from Surin Province has been organizing activities for families and children in shelters, aiming to ensure children do not miss learning opportunities due to school closures. These activities also serve to relieve stress for students and their parents, allowing them to spend quality time together.

Despite a reduction in heavy gunfire over the past two days, authorities continue to advise uninvolved residents to avoid the area for their safety.