Hat yai: Siripong Angkasakulkiat, spokesman for the Flood Emergency Operations Center (FOCOC), has issued an apology to the public following delays in registering for disaster relief compensation after the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation’s (DDPM) website crashed. He clarified that only a national ID card is needed for registration and announced efforts to ease the burden on affected communities, including a proposal to waive water and electricity fees in Hat Yai for three months.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Siripong explained that the government’s priority is to expedite the delivery of relief funds to the public, which has been hindered by regulatory issues causing confusion. In response, a recent Cabinet meeting resolved to bypass public hearings in Songkhla Province to streamline the process, urging cooperation from both the public and officials.

Mr. Siripong further noted that despite the registration hurdles, the compensation payment period has been extended to December 31st to accommodate those impacted by the delays. He reassured that the DDPM website issue has been resolved and services are expected to return to normal promptly.

The Cabinet meeting also discussed measures to restore public utilities, with water and electricity services in Hat Yai anticipated to be fully operational soon. As part of the relief efforts, water fees will be waived for Hat Yai residents for three months, while other areas will receive a two-month waiver.

Additionally, a 530 million baht central budget has been approved for the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO) to facilitate cleaning and restoration projects. This initiative aligns with the Prime Minister’s directive to ensure residents can return to their homes within a week and to have Hat Yai cleaned within two weeks.

Concerning the death of a Muslim individual, the Forward Command Center for Emergency Situations has mandated an investigation by a provincial committee. This will involve verification from community members to address any concerns surrounding the burial process and ensure transparency.