Hat Yai: The government is accelerating its efforts to provide aid to flood victims in the southern region, according to Mr. Ekkanat Promphan, the Minister of Industry. Despite concerns about the northern region’s industrial sector, Ekkanat assured that recovery preparations are underway for the South. Prime Minister Yingluck did not visit the southern region personally due to a cabinet meeting in the North but has dispatched several ministers to oversee relief operations.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Ekkanat discussed the ongoing assistance to the industrial sector in the flood-affected southern areas. He has instructed officials to swiftly assess the damage, although he expressed minimal concern due to the relatively smaller industrial presence compared to the North. The government is committed to repairing any damage and implementing standard measures to aid the affected communities. The Industrial Center Region 11 in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, will serve as a collection point for donated
supplies, which will then be distributed to affected areas including Phatthalung, Songkhla, and the three southern border provinces. This initiative is part of a broader mission to alleviate the suffering of the local population and facilitate recovery.
Addressing concerns about fuel shortages in the affected areas, Ekkanat indicated that coordination with the Ministry of Energy is underway to ensure the delivery of oil supplies. Although public utilities and transportation remain challenging due to flooding, various agencies, including the Ministry of Interior and the military, are providing robust support. A front center has been established in Hat Yai District to coordinate relief efforts, ensuring no withdrawal of assistance until the floodwaters recede. Once conditions improve, the focus will shift to recovery processes. Members of the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party, including local MPs, are scheduled to visit the affected areas later this week.
In response to questions regarding the absence of Prime Minis
ter Paethongtarn Shinawatra in the South, Ekkanat emphasized the need for understanding. He assured that the Prime Minister is concerned for all citizens affected by the floods. The cabinet meeting in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai was organized to boost the economy and tourism in those areas post-flood. Other ministers, such as Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and officials from the Ministry of Defense, have been active in the South. Ekkanat highlighted the continuous presence of Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party MPs in all affected regions, with Mr. Sattra Sripan, MP for Songkhla, actively involved in relief efforts in Hat Yai District.
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