Bangkok: Prapaporn Thongpaknam, Sukhothai MP and deputy spokesperson for the Pheu Thai Party, has called on the government to expedite relief efforts and improve water management in response to widespread flooding. She criticized the government for its perceived neglect of the crisis, highlighting the suffering of the affected population and contrasting it with the Prime Minister’s recent public appearances.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Prapaporn addressed the government’s lack of preparation for the flood situation. Flooding has impacted 2,393,416 rai (1,800 acres) and affected 533,961 people, with over 350,000 rai (1,800 acres) of rice paddies damaged. The most severely affected provinces include Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Nakhon Sawan, Suphan Buri, Phichit, Sukhothai, and Phitsanulok. The Pheu Thai Party has mobilized MPs and candidates to support flood-affected residents, but Ms. Prapaporn emphasized the absence of significant government initiatives to address the issue.
Ms. Prapaporn reported that many people continue to hope for urgent government assistance. She stressed the need for the government to declare affected areas as disaster zones to enable residents to receive compensation. She urged for swift policy measures to assess damages and secure funds for immediate relief.
Upon reviewing the National Water Database, Ms. Prapaporn noted that large reservoirs nationwide are at approximately 90% capacity, a substantial increase from the previous season. Many dams are nearing or exceeding capacity, raising concerns about dam safety and downstream impacts. Despite this, government communication and action on water management have been minimal. The Meteorological Department’s report on Tropical Storm Kalmaegi emphasized the need for urgent action, as the storm caused heavy rainfall in various regions.
Ms. Prapaporn expressed frustration over the media’s focus on the Prime Minister’s activities rather than the flooding crisis. She appealed to the Prime Minister to address public concerns and provide a clear plan to manage the situation, warning that continued inaction could lead to public disillusionment.