Bangkok: General Kriangkrai Srirak, First Vice President of the Senate, has inaugurated the Senate Flood Relief Coordination Center with the aim of delivering essential consumer goods to residents impacted by severe flooding in southern provinces, especially in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province. The center is tasked with coordinating relief efforts in response to the widespread damage affecting lives and property in the region.
According to Thai News Agency, General Kriangkrai emphasized that the Senate is deeply concerned and committed to aiding flood victims. The Senate President has established the coordination center, appointing General Kriangkrai himself as the director, to oversee the relief operations. Senators have been mobilized to secure essential supplies, such as rice, dried food, and water, with some items already distributed to those in need.
In a meeting convened by the Senate Members Meet the People Project Steering Committee, a decision was made to initiate a fundraising drive among senators, targeting at least 500,000 baht in donations. These funds will be allocated to local senators for maximizing aid benefits to the affected communities. Many members have responded generously, actively participating in the fundraising efforts.
The Senate has expressed its solidarity with the flood-affected citizens, highlighting the collaborative efforts of public and private sectors on the ground. While initial management faced challenges, the Prime Minister has committed all available resources to support the flood victims. General Kriangkrai noted that the government’s response was prompt, with the Prime Minister visiting the area immediately after the incident around November 21st, despite the unexpected nature of the flooding, which hadn’t occurred in Hat Yai for nearly two decades.
General Kriangkrai outlined the recovery process, focusing on restoring public utilities, infrastructure, and the mental well-being of those affected. He acknowledged that government warnings might not always be anticipated due to misunderstandings. Drawing from his experience as Commander of Army Region 4, he emphasized the importance of dividing responsibilities among military units for effective problem-solving, despite communication challenges during emergencies.
He further assured that the Prime Minister is expediting relief measures and that the government is implementing comprehensive recovery strategies, including financial support for disaster-affected businesses. The Cabinet has actively delegated responsibilities to respective ministries, underscoring the importance of both tangible and mental rehabilitation for the affected communities.