Bangkok: The Thai Army has deployed C-130 aircraft to deliver crucial supplies and personnel to aid flood relief efforts in Songkhla Province, where the flood disaster level has been escalated to 4.
According to Thai News Agency, Lt. Gen. Wanchana Sawasdee, spokesman for the Flood Emergency Operations Center, announced the comprehensive deployment of resources, including medical teams, equipment, and relief supplies from the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters, to support the field missions. The operation involves transporting essential goods, flat-bottomed boats, jet skis, medical equipment, and drones via C-130 aircraft. Additionally, personnel from various specialized units, such as a medical rescue team and a drone flight unit, have been dispatched to bolster the relief efforts.
Lt. Gen. Wanchana highlighted the establishment of a Forward Flood Emergency Operations Center in Songkhla Province, which is now operating at full capacity to manage the crisis. The center, comprising commanders, administrators, and various support operations, collaborates with volunteers from the private sector and public. Agencies aiming to assist are advised to coordinate with this center to ensure orderly management.
The Forward Emergency Response Center has prioritized Songkhla Province, particularly Hat Yai District, as a critical area due to converging water levels. Within Hat Yai District, five shelter centers have been set up, and the area is divided into four zones, each managed by designated units to facilitate clear management strategies. These strategies focus on people management, supply distribution, water management, and information management.
Efforts in people management include relocating individuals to safe locations while respecting those who choose to stay due to concerns about their property. Supply management involves organizing the delivery of consumer goods and medical assistance through established donation centers. Water management remains challenging, with strategies being developed to reduce water levels swiftly. Information management focuses on disseminating updates and prioritizing requests for assistance using AI technology.
Wing 56 in the southern region acts as the Forward Operations Command Center, under the oversight of the Commander-in-Chief, who reports directly to the Prime Minister. This structure allows for immediate resolution of incidents and improvements in operational integration.
Despite challenges such as equipment difficulties and delayed aid delivery, Lt. Gen. Wanchana acknowledged the overwhelming generosity of the Thai people, which surpasses the floodwaters. He expressed gratitude to all involved parties and emphasized the importance of correcting past shortcomings in future operations.
Current rescue efforts include multiple Air Force flights and the dispatch of the fully equipped HTMS Chakri Naruebet by the Navy, although preparations have caused some delays. In Songkhla Province, the Army has mobilized 1,500 personnel, with additional support growing steadily. AI systems are being employed to sort through overlapping data to ensure efficient communication and assistance.
Regarding any dissatisfaction among flood victims, Lt. Gen. Wanchana noted such instances might stem from delays or misunderstandings, but emphasized that conflict is unlikely. Military personnel will be dispatched as needed to assist and provide clarity to affected communities.
The government is set to convene a meeting to summarize assistance requests, evacuee numbers, and injury reports from hospitals, with a comprehensive update expected by evening.