Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister Suchart has urgently instructed the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to deploy national park personnel to assist in the evacuation of citizens and safeguard property along the Thai-Cambodian border.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Lalida Periswiwattana, Deputy Government Spokesperson, announced that Mr. Suchart Chomklin, who also serves as the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, has commanded the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, along with its associated agencies, to prepare their personnel, equipment, and vehicles for immediate deployment. This mobilization aims to provide comprehensive assistance to those affected by the current situation at the border.
The directive followed reports of unrest and subsequent evacuation orders in high-risk areas. National parks and wildlife sanctuaries in proximity to the border have been tasked with aiding in the relocation of residents to shelters and safe zones, as well as organizing temporary accommodations and facilities for both residents and officials in the affected regions.
The Deputy Spokesperson emphasized that the Deputy Prime Minister has called for collaboration with administrative and security sectors to oversee and protect the homes and assets of evacuated individuals, thereby ensuring safety and reducing public concern during this crisis.
Local agencies, leveraging their understanding of the terrain and forest pathways, are actively coordinating with security operations to minimize risks and enhance the efficacy of citizen support efforts.
In terms of the current developments, officials from the Phnom Dong Rak Wildlife Sanctuary have been actively evacuating bedridden patients and individuals with disabilities from vulnerable villages to shelters since the evening of December 7th, with preparations ongoing to address the evolving situation.