Suriya Calls for Comprehensive Disaster Relief Efforts
The recent heavy rainfall in various regions has led to devastating consequences for many communities, prompting Vice Prime Minister Suriya to mobilize all government units to assist those affected by the natural disasters. In a coordinated effort, agencies such as the Department of Highways, the State Railway of Thailand, the Department of Land Transport, and the Ministry of Interior have been tasked with distributing essential supplies, installing Bailey bridges, and closely monitoring the situation to ensure a swift return to normalcy.
The Vice Prime Minister emphasized the need for caution among residents, especially in areas prone to sudden flooding and landslides, such as foothills near waterways and low-lying areas. Reports from the Ministry of Transport’s Command Center for Disaster Prevention reveal that the transportation infrastructure has been significantly impacted, with a total of 144 road networks affected, including 11 highways, 67 national roads, 4 border roads, and 76 local roads. Additionally, one railway line has been disrupted, necessitating temporary halts to local train services.
Government Agencies Actively Engage in Relief Efforts
The Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) has dispatched relief supplies to Mueang District in Phrae Province and other disaster-affected areas, collaborating with local agencies to ensure efficient aid distribution. Similarly, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has deployed personnel to expand culverts along water channels in Sawankhalok District, Sukhothai Province, to improve water drainage and alleviate the impact on affected residents. As a result, train services on the Sila At – Sawankhalok local route will be temporarily suspended starting August 24, 2024.
Furthermore, the Department of Airports (DOA) has joined forces with the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) to provide round-the-clock assistance to disaster victims, including delivering relief supplies to Mueang District in Phrae Province and other affected areas. The Department of Highways (DOH) has reported on the flood and landslide situation in its network as of August 24, 2024, indicating impacts in three provinces, with a total of 8 road sections affected, 4 of which are impassable.
Continued Focus on Disaster Relief and Infrastructure Restoration
The Department of Highways (DOH) has intensified its efforts to expand culverts, install warning signs, and closely monitor the situation to ensure the safety of road users. As of the latest update on August 24, 2024, the disaster-affected areas encompass five provinces in the northern region, including Chiang Rai, Nan, Phrae, Phayao, and Sukhothai, with a total of 18 affected road sections, 3 of which are passable.
In the northeastern region, eight provinces, including Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, and Khon Kaen, have reported impacts, with a total of 11 affected road sections, 4 of which are passable. In the southern region, 11 provinces, including Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Yala, Narathiwat, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun, have experienced consequences, with a total of 8 affected road sections, 3 of which are passable.
As the situation gradually improves, government agencies remain committed to their duties, ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens. The Disaster Prevention Command Center of the Ministry of Transport continues to monitor the latest developments, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in high-risk areas and encouraging prompt reporting of any emergencies.
In conclusion, Vice Prime Minister Suriya’s directive to mobilize all government units for disaster relief efforts underscores the government’s commitment to assisting those affected by natural disasters and restoring essential infrastructure. Through collaborative efforts and proactive measures, the authorities aim to mitigate the impact of the recent heavy rainfall and ensure a swift recovery for the affected communities.