Buriram:Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul has directed provincial governors in flood-prone areas to declare disaster zones preemptively, rather than waiting for flooding to occur.
According to Thai News Agency, Anutin emphasized the importance of proactive measures during a video conference at the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command Center. He highlighted the Hat Yai flood relief shelter model as a successful test run and called for the immediate declaration of disaster zones based on weather forecasts. This approach is intended to manage potential flooding effectively and minimize damage.
Anutin instructed Lieutenant Colonel Trakul Thotham to review guidelines for managing temporary shelters in all 14 southern provinces. The aim is to ensure that shelters provide more than just basic sleeping arrangements, with adequate facilities such as toilets, bedding, and areas for pets. Special attention is required for vulnerable groups and patients who need close medical care.
Furthermore, Anutin tasked Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas and Deputy Minister of Interior Jetseth Thaiseth with reviewing damage assessment procedures for insurance claims under the National Insurance Policy. This is to ensure the process aligns with cabinet objectives and is implemented swiftly, in coordination with relevant officials and provincial governors nationwide.