Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, has refuted allegations from online critics that the government has been slow to respond to severe flooding in the southern provinces of Thailand. He assured that preparations, including compensation funds, are already in place to address the crisis. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham revealed that Gen. Nattapol Nakphanit, Deputy Minister of Defense, has been dispatched to assess the situation firsthand. Gen. Nattapol reported that Yala Province is currently experiencing the most severe flooding, with expectations that the water will soon move towards Pattani Province. Forecasts predict rain in Songkhla and Satun Provinces over the next few days, necessitating close monitoring of these areas. The challenging conditions have resulted in some areas being accessible only by large vehicles, complicating the delivery of essential supplies such as oil, cooking gas, and food. The Minister of Defense has mandated a swift reso lution to these logistical issues. Mr. Phumtham emphasized that the flooding in the South is expected to be transient, unlike the more prolonged flooding experienced in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. The government is actively coordinating relief efforts, with the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center (SBPAC) playing a key role in integrating resources. Mr. Phumtham confirmed that financial preparations for compensation and rehabilitation are complete, ensuring that affected residents will be supported adequately. Addressing criticism of delayed government intervention, Mr. Phumtham highlighted that officials, including General Nattapol, were on the ground from day one. He also noted that other high-ranking officials, such as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul and Justice Minister Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, have visited the affected areas. Mr. Phumtham urged the public to rely on factual information rather than social media speculation, which often misrepresents the sit uation. He called for the media to accurately convey the government's efforts and reassured that all measures are being taken to provide equitable care for the nation's citizens. The Royal Thai Army, alongside volunteer forces, has been mobilized to provide essential support in the affected regions, operating under the standard protocols of disaster response.
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