Bangkok:The Prime Minister has directed the immediate release of 4.7 billion baht in flood relief funds, emphasizing that the distribution should not be delayed until the waters recede. The relief payments will be managed on a "first come, first served" basis.
According to the Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul addressed the issue of ongoing conflicts in various areas related to water release. He stated that he operates under a single command structure and has not received any reports of conflicts, emphasizing that local issues are managed by provincial governors. These governors act as incident commanders and report directly to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior. Anutin stressed that conflicts are unacceptable under the law, as affected areas have been declared disaster zones. Consequently, he holds full authority to manage the nationwide situation, with provincial governors authorized to issue orders to various agencies as per legal provisions.
Anutin also commented on the adequacy of the 4.7 billion baht relief fund, indicating that it must suffice as it comes from the central budget's remaining amount. Initially intended to pay off debts like the previous year's 10 billion baht, this budget will now be used for flood relief, with debt repayment plans deferred to the 2027 budget.
Ms. Sirithorn Somsuwan, Director of the Public Relations Division of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, announced guidelines for providing relief to those affected. Emergency government funds are being utilized to assist disaster victims, with damage assessments and fund disbursement already underway in Bangkok and other affected provinces.
As of October 5th at 7:00 AM, 1,056,361 households have registered for relief through the government's application system. The breakdown includes 458,987 households in Bangkok, an increase of over 100,000 from the previous day, followed by Samut Prakan with 149,194 households, Pathum Thani with 130,010 households, Chachoengsao with 42,531 households, and Rayong with 36,016 households.