Bangkok: The Emergency Response Center has announced additional financial support for families affected by the recent floods in southern provinces. The Center for the Emergency Situation Administration (CEA) has approved an additional 2 million baht in compensation for funeral expenses for flood victims, specifically for those affected between November 22-27. Legal heirs of the deceased are required to confirm their identity to access this compensation. Gratitude was expressed by the Chularatchamontri for the participation of Muslim doctors in observing religious ceremonies.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, the spokesman for the Flood Emergency Operations Center (FOC), chaired a meeting where the allocation of the 2 million baht was discussed. The compensation, intended for families of the deceased, will be sourced from two budgets: 1 million baht from the central budget and 1 baht from the Prime Minister’s Office Disaster Relief Fund. The funds have already been transferred to the affected provinces.
The compensation plan covers not only Songkhla Province but also eight other flood-affected provinces: Trang, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Narathiwat, Pattani, Phatthalung, Yala, Satun, and Surat Thani. Although Surat Thani had no fatalities, all affected provinces will have committees, led by their governors, to manage the compensation distribution.
The criteria for compensation include deaths due to drowning, deaths in flooded residences or hospitals, and deaths during evacuation or relocation to safer areas within the specified period. Required documents for compensation include a death certificate, case report, and medical diagnosis. If further verification is needed, a Por Por 14 form will be used. Legal heirs must confirm their identity to receive the compensation.
Mr. Siripong expressed appreciation to the Chularatchamontri for their swift processing of cases involving deceased Muslims, adhering to the religious requirement of processing within 24 hours. Muslim committees in each district, along with Muslim doctors, will be involved in these considerations.
Mr. Siripong also mentioned that the Ministry of Public Health reported no epidemic-level increase in flood-related illnesses. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation’s website, which faced technical issues, is now operational, with improved efficiency expected in handling registrations and updates.
Additionally, a team of academics and water experts is scheduled to visit Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, on December 6th to assess potential storm risks and related hazards in the coming week.