Bangkok:The shadow cabinet has called on the government to release its eastern flood drainage plan in response to prolonged flooding, highlighting issues with government apps that have delayed compensation payments.
According to Thai News Agency, during the People's Party's 16th Shadow Cabinet meeting, Director of the Center for Future Policy Decharat Sukkamnerd stated that while flooding has subsided in some areas, regions such as Chachoengsao, Prachinburi, Nakhon Nayok, and Pathum Thani continue to face the risk of extended flooding. This ongoing situation impacts daily life, access to medical services, and raises concerns about chemical contamination.
The People's Party had previously queried the government about the Bang Pakong River basin drainage plan, which Deputy Minister of Interior Jetset Thaiseth promised to implement on October 8th. However, the plan has yet to be unveiled, raising concerns about the Ministry of Interior's preparedness and performance in addressing the issue.
Mr. Decharat also called for expedited water drainage in affected agricultural and orchard areas in Damnoen Saduak district, Ratchaburi province, and Bang Khon Thi-Amphawa district, Samut Songkhram province. With heavy rainfall anticipated in the South from October 19-21, residents from Phetchaburi province southward have been advised to remain alert. Additionally, preparations are underway to coordinate assistance in Songkhla, Yala, and Pattani.
In terms of relief efforts, the People's Party urged the government to approve more central government funds and modify criteria to ensure comprehensive assistance reaches all victims, including aquaculture farmers who lack proper documentation or registration updates.
People's Party representatives, including MPs and Bangkok City Council members, reported that tens of thousands in Nong Chok, Min Buri, and Lat Krabang districts have been affected by over 25 days of flooding. They suggested increasing registration points for relief, creating channels for appealing eligibility, and adjusting criteria to reflect actual damage.
Bangkok MP Suphanat Meenchainan highlighted that delays in flood relief payments, amounting to 9,000 baht and 5,000 baht for related water damage, are partly due to deficiencies in the "government" app. Issues include difficulties in attaching photos and documents, lack of systems to filter duplicate applicants or check eligibility status, absence of flood location marking, unclear database entries on building types, and lack of integration with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's claim.bangkok website, leading to redundant data verification by officials.
The People's Party has called upon the government to expedite the release of the drainage plan, enhance data integration across agencies, and improve the relief system to ensure citizens receive timely and comprehensive aid.