Bangkok: The Prime Minister sat at the head of the table to discuss flood relief in the South, outlining a three-phase framework of “Aid, Relief, and Rehabilitation” to address the extensive flood damage. The plan includes offering 0% interest loans to help residents rebuild their homes and expediting coordination with insurance companies to ensure prompt disbursements, with a focus on restoring normalcy swiftly.
According to Thai News Agency, the meeting was chaired by the Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, and attended by key government officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanpraphas, and other ministers. The discussions centered on alleviating the financial burden on entrepreneurs and businesses in flood-affected areas. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Finance for leading integrated relief efforts and emphasized the importance of addressing the situation in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, a critical economic hub.
The Prime Minister, after visiting the flood-stricken area, highlighted the widespread impact and the urgent need for action. He provided clear instructions prioritizing public safety and well-being and declared an Emergency Decree to facilitate rapid response. The Ministry of Finance’s role in waiving regulations to aid swift procurement and assistance was acknowledged.
Efforts are being coordinated by the Ministry of Finance in collaboration with other ministries to enhance the efficiency of the response in Hat Yai District and other affected southern provinces. The government has established a command center at Government House to streamline operations and communication. Short-term relief measures include the provision of food, water, medicine, and shelter, while medium-term measures focus on income support and debt relief. The third phase involves restoring normalcy through insurance coordination and zero-interest loans for repairs.
Before chairing the meeting, the Prime Minister received supplies from the Ministry of Finance to aid flood victims. Reports indicated that the Prime Minister returned from Hat Yai District to Bangkok to attend the meeting and may revisit the affected area for further assessment and support.