“Jirayu,” spokesperson for the Emergency Operations Center, announced that “Phumitham” ordered the Meteorological Department to study Climate Change to prevent future disasters. The recovery of Chiang Rai’s Muang District is expected to be completed this week, while efforts in Mae Sai are anticipated to conclude by October 20. Meetings will take place daily at 9 AM, with commitments made to resolve issues regarding construction vehicles confiscated during flood assistance efforts.
On September 26, 2024, during a meeting held at Government House, Mr. Jirayu Huangsap, consultant to the Prime Minister, conveyed the proceedings chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Phumitham Wechayachai, discussing the recent flooding and mudslides in Chiang Rai. Key officials, including the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, attended the meeting to plan responses to the unprecedented weather challenges.
Phumitham highlighted the urgent need for situation assessments, emphasizing that the current incidence of rain and mudslides presents new challenges distinct from previous events. The mud is becoming compact in drainage systems, complicating recovery efforts as levels remain at 1-2 meters in some areas.
A consultative group was established, led by experienced specialists, including Mr. Plodprasop Suraswadi. Daily communication about the situation is crucial, as the recent rain patterns suggest a shift that may be related to Climate Change. Thus, the Meteorological Department has been tasked with a thorough investigation to issue timely warnings and preventive measures.
The discussion also covered the unique characteristics of flooding in Mae Sai, combining water and mud, which poses a greater danger than regular floods. Phumitham acknowledged that the significant volume of mud complicates rescue operations. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) will cooperate with other agencies to address these issues.
Challenges arise as large vehicles are limited to main roads and have difficulty accessing areas to assist. The situation is exacerbated as restoration requires a large manpower commitment, indicating a severe shortage of necessary equipment and resources.
Prime Minister Phaethongthan Shinawatra, along with other officials, plans to visit Chiang Rai on September 27 to observe and assist in recovery efforts in heavily impacted areas. They will also hold strategic meetings to address current issues and determine further actions needed.
The Emergency Operations Center will conduct daily meetings to evaluate situation reports and strategies to manage immediate concerns. There is a focus on expediting government relief processes to effectively support those affected, as previous aid efforts encountered delays.
The approved operational plan includes recovery actions in both Muang Chiang Rai and Mae Sai, with specific timelines set for completion. In Muang District, efforts involve 745 homes within the municipality and 6,614 outside, targeted for completion by September 29, while Mae Sai’s operations encompass five zones, set to conclude by October 20.
Phumitham addressed concerns raised about vehicles assisting flood victims being penalized for exceeding weight limits. He suggested coordination for aid vehicles to prevent operational disruptions and acknowledged the need for leniency in this crisis while emphasizing the importance of public safety as well.
This article was rewritten from a Thairath’s news article.
