Hat yai: Thammanat Prompao, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, has initiated a central command center in Hat Yai to coordinate relief efforts for villagers affected by severe flooding in the southern provinces. The move includes the mobilization of all branches of the armed forces, utilizing high-horsepower jet skis and helicopters to aid stranded residents, including the safe transport of dialysis patients to medical facilities.
According to Thai News Agency, Thammanat, who also serves as the Director of the Center for Water Management in Natural Disasters, held a videoconference with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to assess the flooding situation. He confirmed that a central command center has been established in Hat Yai District, where he will oversee operations until improvements are seen. The government has been mobilizing various agencies to provide necessary assistance, including setting up evacuation centers and command posts at the Signature Hotel.
Thammanat highlighted the challenges posed by power outages at hospitals, which affect emergency care and oxygen-dependent patients. In response, repair teams have been deployed to restore power, alongside efforts to transport patients with the help of the armed forces. Additionally, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation and the Ministry of Agriculture are managing the distribution of food and relief supplies under the supervision of the Fourth Army Region Commander. Strong currents have hindered access to some areas, necessitating the use of high-horsepower boats and Navy SEAL support.
Addressing public concerns over a viral video showing people stranded on rooftops, Thammanat assured that efforts are underway to reorganize the command system for more effective assistance. The rapid rise in water levels, exacerbated by inflows from Sadao District, has complicated rescue operations. However, the Meteorological Department forecasts that heavy rains will subside soon, allowing the Royal Irrigation Department to expedite water drainage through opened floodgates, with an anticipated improvement in conditions within three days.
Thammanat detailed the deployment strategy, dividing the affected region into eastern and western zones for targeted relief work. The operation involves a combination of military, irrigation, and disaster prevention vehicles, supported by jet skis and boats capable of navigating strong currents. Communication issues, previously disrupted by sandbag interference and power outages, are being addressed to enhance coordination.
During his visit to the affected areas, Thammanat responded to a request for urgent medical evacuation of two elderly dialysis patients in Khlung Subdistrict. He ordered a Ministry of Agriculture helicopter to ensure their safe transportation to a hospital, addressing a critical need for immediate medical attention.