Thai Gov't Speeds Up Restoration Efforts In Flood-Affected Areas
BANGKOK, Aug 26 (Bernama) -- The Thai government is accelerating the restoration and repair of damaged houses, hospitals, schools, roads and infrastructure nationwide, following floods that have affected 13 provinces.
Minister attached to the Thailand Prime Minister's Office, Jakkapong Sangmanee, said there are six provinces still affected by the floods, including Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Phetchabun and Sukhothai.
He said relevant agencies are expediting the drainage of water to reduce water levels and pumping floodwaters out of low-lying areas to prevent pollution.
"The relevant agencies have also expedited the restoration and repair works. They have provided food and drinking water, and expanded internet signals to cover all areas," he said after chairing an urgent meeting on the flood situation at the Government House here Monday.
Since Aug 16, 22 people have been killed and 19 others injured in flash floods and landslides following monsoon rains in Thailand. The country’s Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation said over 30,900 households in 13 provinces have been affected.
Jakkapong said the Meteorological Department and the National Science and Technology Development Agency have predicted that Thailand will continue to experience continuous rainfall until late August.
He said according to the department, increased rainfall is expected in the upper northern region, particularly in the provinces of Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan and Phrae.
Jakkapong warned people living in the eastern region, specifically in Chanthaburi and Trat provinces, and in the southern provinces of Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun to stay vigilant.
"At the same time, areas at risk of heavy rain during September and October must be continuously monitored, especially regions with high soil moisture, such as the upper northern region and Phuket province to prevent landslides,” he said.
Relevant agencies have been ordered to brace for the possibility of a storm passing through, he added.
-- BERNAMA
