Bangkok: Ekaniti Nitithanprapas has mandated the creation of a Risk Map to identify high-risk areas in central Thailand to prepare for potential floods and droughts. During the inaugural meeting of the Committee on Flood and Drought Prevention and Mitigation in the Central Region, chaired by Ekaniti, the need for comprehensive monitoring and preparedness was emphasized.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister Ekaniti highlighted the government's proactive stance under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's leadership. Five regional committees have been established to combat flood and drought challenges across Northern, Northeastern, Central, Eastern, and Southern regions, each guided by a Deputy Prime Minister to streamline operations and eliminate bureaucratic redundancy during disasters.
The central region, characterized by its lowland topography, is prone to flooding from northern waters and serves as a significant economic hub. Ekaniti directed relevant agencies to leverage geospatial technology from GISTDA and other departments to develop real-time risk maps, aiding management planning and early warning systems.
The National Water Resources Office and the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation are tasked with equipping provincial governors with operational checklists for immediate action, such as inspecting infrastructure and preparing contingency plans. A provincial incident command center will coordinate rescue efforts, focusing on vulnerable populations, while temporary shelters will be prepared by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security.
Hospitals and health centers are instructed to stock medical supplies for continuous public care, and economic zones are to implement strict flood and drought prevention measures. Quick damage assessment and compensation disbursement will be prioritized post-disaster, utilizing technology to streamline processes.
Responsibilities for flood and drought management have been distributed across 17 provinces and Bangkok, with cabinet ministers overseeing specific river basins to ensure decisive action. Ekaniti stressed the importance of clear communication to prevent public panic and maintain preparedness, emphasizing a tailored approach to risk analysis for each province.
Ekaniti reassured the public of the government's commitment to safeguarding lives and property, with the committee dedicated to closely monitoring and managing the central region's flood and drought situations.