Bangkok: Ratchada revealed progress in flood relief payments to 120,000 households, reiterating 100% coverage of electricity, water, and internet. He also emphasized accelerating integration of all sectors in waste management, and extending the deadline for social security contributions by six months.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Dhnadirek, Assistant to the Prime Minister’s Office and spokesperson for the Flood Emergency Operations Center (FOCOC), announced progress on compensation payments, stating significant progress has been made over the past two days. Between December 1st and 2nd, the government transferred funds to 120,949 households, totaling 1,088,541,000 baht. Some households, 2,878 of whom are not linked to PromptPay, have yet to receive the funds. Once linked to PromptPay, the Government Savings Bank will transfer funds to their accounts at once. Another portion of accounts with inactivity will continue to be transferred today. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation estimates that the funds will reach 66,187 households, totaling 595,683,000 baht, divided among four provinces, including Songkhla.
46,976 households in Pattani Province, 16,953 households in Surat Thani Province, 1,997 households in Yala Province, and 261 households are expected to receive funds. The government plans to unlock regulations and emphasize methods that are convenient and not burdensome to the people, including having the Government Savings Bank mobilize officials to distribute money into accounts as much as possible.
Ms. Rachada added that regarding water and electricity, including internet contracts, 100% coverage is available in all areas. However, there may be minor issues, such as the water supply to homes near bridges, where the water pipes along the bridge neck are damaged. The Waterworks Authority will expedite repairs.
In the Hat Yai area, more than 5,000 households are still without power. This isn’t because the electricity authority isn’t ready, but because the electricity isn’t reaching them due to closed houses, damaged electrical systems, or broken circuit breakers. The Provincial Electricity Authority will handle these issues. Regarding internet coverage, the NBTC reports that at this time, 98% of the households are covered.
Ms. Rachada continued, stating that another important issue is waste disposal. This requires integration across all sectors. The military is integrating personnel, volunteers, Territorial Defense Volunteers, and volunteers from the public, spread across four zones. The Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO) is looking at small alleys and streets, while the military will focus on broader public roads and areas, operating 24/7. Garbage collection begins with households cleaning and removing garbage from their houses, placing it at the entrance of the alley for soldiers to collect. However, if an alley is cleaned in the morning, more garbage may accumulate later. The Center for the Resolution of Emergency Situation has received reports that the garbage situation has significantly improved.
Regarding traffic, the Royal Thai Police reported that 513 vehicles awaiting removal in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, have been inspected, with 170 owners contacted. Those attending today’s press conference and wanting to track their vehicles can contact the police at 191 or 1599, or call the Department of Land Transport at 1584. Police have removed vehicles blocking traffic, but some remain on the shoulders of the roads, ensuring traffic in the area should be at ease.
Ms. Ratchada continued that the Department of Public Works and Town and Country Planning is ready to survey buildings to determine areas requiring special precautions. Members of the public who wish to report their desire for a survey can call 1531.
Regarding social security contribution payments, the Social Security Office informed that members do not need to worry about their contribution payments, as the payment period has been extended by six months. For example, if payment is due in November, it can be made six months later, extending the period for social security payments from November to April 2026.