Surin: "Anutin" has confirmed that the Interior Ministry is prepared to ensure houses are warm and safe in line with the Prime Minister's policy. It has been explained that the Interior Ministry has its own budget to construct bunkers, negating the need for a central budget. Residents in the Thai-Cambodian border area are reportedly in good spirits, living normally, with the varied timing of checkpoint openings and closures seen as beneficial for Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul discussed his conversation with the Prime Minister during a recent visit to Surin Province. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of full preparation to support the rear line, likening the Ministry of Interior to a home and the military to a fence. Anutin noted that the Prime Minister's policy is visionary, aiming for homes to be comfortable, warm, and safe, while the military acts as a protective barrier. Orders have been received to ensure the well-being of villagers, focusing on economic stability, living conditions, and emergency preparedness, including readiness of hospitals, field hospitals, shelters, and schools.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of protecting the lives of people, particularly the elderly and school children. Anutin mentioned that he informed the Prime Minister about the Ministry's directive for governors and district chiefs to promptly survey bunkers. The Office of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior has allocated a budget for this purpose, allowing the construction of bunkers without needing additional central funds. The Prime Minister insisted on the importance of standard-compliant bunkers, ensuring they are secure and accessible, with plans for evacuation practices and transport readiness.
In assessing current concerns, Anutin remarked on the effective communication and negotiation on the military front and the governor's support for military operations, including border management. He noted that the staggered opening and closing times of the border may affect the neighboring side more. Political issues are not a concern of the Interior Ministry, which maintains its stance on the current border management schedule.
The Prime Minister has stressed the importance of effective communication with the public to prevent misunderstandings. Anutin acknowledged the critical role of communication in fostering confidence and warmth among residents. The situation on the ground is reportedly stable, with the elderly being the most anxious, while the working-age group and general public are well-informed about areas to avoid. Life in the region is considered normal. Anutin plans to visit Ubon Ratchathani Province to meet with governors of seven provinces bordering Cambodia to discuss emergency response plans and conduct rehearsals for readiness.