Bangkok: The Prime Minister has appointed the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Armed Forces to lead the flood relief operations in Songkhla Province, declaring a state of emergency to address the severe flooding situation. The decision comes amidst assurances that this appointment will not conflict with the roles of other officials, including Thammanat Prompao, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, who has been involved in similar operations elsewhere. According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul announced the emergency measures following a Cabinet meeting, emphasizing General Ukrit Boontranon's role in coordinating relief efforts. The Commander-in-Chief will integrate assistance, issue orders, and provide protection for operators to ensure a cohesive response. Efforts are underway to evacuate residents unable to leave their homes, with various agencies mobilizing resources. Deputy Prime Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn and Defense Minister General Nattapol Nakphanit are among the officials on the ground. The government is utilizing a range of vehicles, including planes and helicopters, to assist in the relief operations. The Prime Minister stated that all local agencies are working diligently without delay, prioritizing the safety of the residents. A forward command unit has been established, and the emergency decree was enacted to manage the situation effectively. Despite criticisms of slow management, the Prime Minister reiterated that the government is fully mobilized, with resources and budget at its disposal. The flood crisis has also impacted healthcare facilities, prompting the mobilization of the Provincial Electricity Authority to ensure consistent power supply. The Prime Minister noted the importance of maintaining utilities to avoid relocating patients. A dedicated operations center has been set up at the Phakdi Bodin Building to coordinate efforts, with the Situation Director overseeing activities. The Prime Mini ster assured that the situation is under control, with all emergency units actively engaged in relief efforts. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has elevated the situation to Level 4, with Mr. Arsit Sampantharat serving as the incident commander. The evacuation process is ongoing, with no set deadline, as authorities work to ensure swift recovery and supply distribution once conditions improve. His Majesty the King has expressed concern, providing donations and support to affected residents. There is concern about overlapping responsibilities between the Commander-in-Chief and Captain Thammanat Prompao, but the Prime Minister clarified that all officials are authorized to issue orders to maximize public safety. The government and military are collaborating closely, with the Commander-in-Chief having the authority to coordinate operations. The Prime Minister dismissed suggestions that Captain Thammanat's role is politically motivated, highlighting his early involvement in the flood-hit ar eas. Despite the challenges, the government remains committed to addressing the situation, with plans for ongoing updates and coordination among all agencies involved.