Bangkok:Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has directed agencies to expedite flood relief payouts to affected residents this week, bypassing the need to wait for full recovery operations to finish.
According to Thai News Agency, during a meeting of the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Command, Anutin instructed officials to begin compensation payments as soon as victim verification and eligibility checks are completed. He emphasized that relief funds should be distributed promptly, with budget allocations already prepared, and transfers carried out daily if necessary.
The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department's Director-General, Nirat Phongsitthithawon, confirmed the transfer of 4.7 billion baht ($139 million) to the Government Savings Bank. This transfer allows local authorities to immediately disburse funds to qualified residents once their data is verified.
The orders coincide with warnings from the Meteorological Department about increased rainfall across Thailand, particularly heavy downpours expected in the south and Bangkok, potentially challenging current water management strategies.
Flooding continues in several provinces, including Prachin Buri, where ongoing floodwaters have led to more evacuations and disrupted local sanitation. Anutin has instructed provincial governors to improve conditions at temporary shelters, prioritize public hygiene, and coordinate cleanup efforts in areas where floodwaters are receding.