Bangkok: “Phradon” reveals that the Prime Minister has ordered the formation of a committee to analyze past disaster responses and enhance future preparedness. This initiative aims to create a comprehensive government manual for systematic problem-solving, with a goal to finalize this task before the dissolution of Parliament. The current focus is on addressing the uneven compensation packages, particularly in areas under the Emergency Decree.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Paradorn Prisananantakul, Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office and Director of the Flood Emergency Operations Center (FOCOC), disclosed that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed the establishment of a committee focused on reviewing lessons learned and preparing for future disasters, including earthquakes and floods across different regions.
Various agencies have previously mobilized to aid the public during disasters, but there has been a lack of comprehensive debriefing or summary of lessons learned. The government often resorts to immediate resource allocation during new disasters, highlighting the necessity for long-term solutions. The government aims to create a thorough manual to systematically address these issues.
Mr. Paradorn stated that the committee, chaired by the Prime Minister, will include members from all relevant government agencies and experts from diverse fields. Notable figures from the business and private sectors, such as the president of the Songkhla Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Seri Supratit, Mr. Anon Sanitwong Na Ayutthaya, and Mr. Kaewsan Atibodhi, have been invited to contribute insights and lessons learned. The plan includes integrating technology from the outset, involving agencies like the Bureau of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (BDI) and the Thailand Development Fund (TGA), as well as private sector entities with technological expertise.
Pre-disaster preparedness will involve advanced weather forecasting, facilitated by a new collaboration with tomorrow.io. A public notification system is set to be established to bolster public confidence in government information, ensuring timely evacuations. During incidents, integrated rescue plans are necessary. The government acknowledges a shortage of rescue personnel, necessitating the creation of volunteer teams registered with the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM). This will enable coordination with private rescue teams during emergencies.
Regarding compensation, current obstacles are being addressed by the government, aiming to resolve structural issues and bureaucratic bottlenecks. The intention is to amend necessary regulations and laws to expedite assistance and compensation with minimal hardship.
Emphasizing the urgency, Mr. Paradorn noted that the committee will work swiftly, with the Prime Minister stating a commitment to complete the task within the current government’s term. The committee, chaired by the Prime Minister, will have all Deputy Prime Ministers as vice-chairs and will invite international experts to strengthen the team. Reports suggest Deputy Prime Minister Bowornsak Uwanno may lead a subcommittee within this larger framework, with further details expected after the first meeting.
Regarding compensation inequality outside the Emergency Decree areas, Mr. Paradorn mentioned ongoing Cabinet discussions. The emergency decree currently applies only to Songkhla, but further consideration for other affected provinces will be discussed.