Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, has confirmed the government's readiness to support water management projects across every province, with a substantial budget allocation aimed at mitigating flood risks and improving water flow. Over 100 billion baht has been earmarked for these initiatives, which seek to systematically manage water resources and reduce the need for annual compensation due to flooding.
According to Thai News Agency, Anutin discussed the government's efforts and plans in an interview, highlighting a pilot project on the Ping River aimed at increasing its capacity to prevent flooding in Chiang Mai. This project, implemented by the Royal Thai Armed Forces Development Command, is intended to showcase the success and collaborative efforts in flood prevention and management. The initiative has involved cooperation from the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters, which has assisted in dredging and removing obstructive vegetation along waterways.
Anutin recalled the severe flood situation in 2024, exacerbated by weeds, garbage, and debris that impeded water flow in the Ping River basin. As Minister of the Interior at the time, he directed provincial governors to collaborate on preventing future occurrences and securing necessary funding. The government has already allocated over 100 billion baht for a seven-year period, equating to more than 10 billion baht monthly, to address long-term issues and eliminate the need for annual relief payments. This initiative is not limited to Chiang Mai but extends to Chiang Rai and other provinces, aiming to prevent flooding and reduce compensation payments, which annually amount to 30-40 billion baht.
The previous Cabinet meeting underscored the need for the Royal Irrigation Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, and the Office of National Water Resources to expedite proposals for Cabinet approval on various drainage projects. Additionally, Anutin addressed the toxic contamination problem in the Kok River in Chiang Rai Province, noting that discussions with neighboring countries have already taken place to find a resolution.