CHIANG RAI, Thailand - The Flood, Storm, and Landslide Disaster Relief Operations Center has reported progress in restoring areas affected by flooding, particularly in Chiang Rai province. Many regions are beginning to return to normal, with specific attention on communities in Mae Sai district, such as Hua Fai and Muang Daeng, where recovery efforts are nearing completion.
The Royal Irrigation Department is actively monitoring flood risks, noting that six dams are currently exceeding the Upper Rule Curve, a critical indicator for water management. These include the Sirikit, Ubolratana, and Mae Ngat Somboon Chon dams, along with the Mae Mok, Huai Luang, and Naruebodindrachinta reservoirs.
In response to damage in industrial sectors, the Ministry of Industry has implemented relief measures for affected factories in Chiang Rai. Factories categorized under Category 2 and Category 3 are now exempt from annual factory fees, with entrepreneurs permitted to submit claims until the end of October 2024.
Flood relief efforts are also ongoing in Chiang Mai and Lamphun provinces as water levels gradually decrease. In Chiang Mai, areas like Nong Faek in Saraphi district remain submerged, prompting efforts to pump water out. The Provincial Waterworks Authority has restored water supply operations, while water trucks assist residents. Lamphun has faced significant challenges, with stagnant water affecting both residents and farmers. Authorities have deployed additional water pumps to expedite recovery, anticipating normalization within three days.
The Royal Thai Navy has contributed resources in Lamphun, deploying 20 water-pushing boats to assist in draining floodwaters in critical areas. Complete drainage is expected by October 15.
As conditions improve in the north, the southern region faces new threats, with the Thai Meteorological Department warning of heavy rainfall, flash floods, and landslides. Nakhon Si Thammarat and Trang are identified as high-risk areas, with local authorities preparing for potential emergencies, including evacuation centers.
On October 15, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra will convene a meeting to discuss flood relief progress with the center and its forward command. The meeting aims to review ongoing efforts to assist affected communities, including the distribution of survival kits and educational scholarships in severely impacted areas.
Additionally, the Ministry of Interior has outlined compensation criteria for flood victims, offering cleaning compensation of up to 10,000 baht for households in declared emergency disaster zones. Eligibility extends to those whose homes have been partially cleaned or who have already received assistance from local authorities.