Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul reported that the situation of high water levels in the Ping River, particularly in Chiang Mai, is being managed effectively despite significant rainfall. He thanked social media for positive feedback on real-time alerts and livestreaming of water levels. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is scheduled to visit Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai on September 27 to oversee the situation and support local officials.
Anutin confirmed that although water is encroaching into economic areas in Chiang Mai, efforts are underway to manage the flow and evacuate excess water through dams and weirs. Collaborations between the provincial governor, the Interior Ministry, and the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation are ongoing to ensure effective management during this crisis.
The Deputy Minister also highlighted the importance of community morale and collaboration among various agencies, emphasizing that regional officials have the authority to utilize funds to aid those affected. The central government is expediting support, ensuring financial assistance reaches affected families as quickly as possible.
In light of possible flooding similar to the severe 2011 crisis, Anutin expressed confidence that while the current rainfall is significant, the situation should not escalate to the same level of disaster, although rainfall amounts and conditions are comparable. The management of water releases from neighboring countries also contributes to the current challenges.
This article was rewritten from a Thairath’s news article.
