Sanaa:During a House of Representatives meeting, Mr. Veerayut Kanchuchat, a party-list MP from the People's Party, questioned the Prime Minister about the government's handling of recent floods and the relief efforts for those affected. In response, Mr. Jetset Thaiseth, Deputy Minister of Interior, reported that the floods have affected 45 provinces, submerging approximately 5 million rai of land and impacting over 3.1 million people. The water level in the Bang Pakong River basin reached 4.93 meters, exceeding the 2013 record. The National Water Resources Management Committee (NWRC) estimates that if no further rainfall occurs, it may take up to 38 days, or until November 13th, for water levels in the eastern region to normalize.
Accourding to Thai News Agency, Mr. Veerayuth questioned the extent of damage due to natural disasters versus government mismanagement, using Trat Province as an example where proactive water release resulted in less damage. He urged the government to expedite planning for the crisis's next phase, particularly in the Bang Pakong River basin, and called for transparency in water diversion information. He also proposed the creation of a central agency for community-level water drainage decisions and emphasized the need for clear targets for evacuation, shelters, and drainage, as well as the management of toxic substances in Prachinburi Province.
Mr. Jetseth Thaiseth acknowledged the difficulty in distinguishing between damage caused by natural disasters and government errors, citing unpredictable rainfall patterns. He noted that the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) is following a three-step process of preparedness, response, and recovery, and is actively monitoring evacuation centers and the transportation of affected citizens. The NWRC is working on a comprehensive water drainage plan, and the Prime Minister has directed agencies to investigate and halt operations at factories contributing to toxic contamination.
Mr. Veerayuth estimated the economic damage could reach 40 billion baht and suggested that the aid framework should focus on "reviving" affected individuals, especially farmers who lost crops and property. He also sought clarification on disaster insurance measures that promise up to 100,000 baht in compensation.
Mr. Jetseth Thaiseth detailed that government assistance includes an initial payment of 10,000 baht, with an additional 90,000 baht for home repairs. The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives is collecting data to propose further measures to the Cabinet. He assured that the DDPM is responding to all provincial requests without discrimination.