The recent flooding in Nong Khai province has prompted swift action from the government to support those affected, especially the tourism sector. Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sorawong Thienthong, announced that since Wednesday, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s administration has been discussing a comprehensive compensation plan. “No travel business will be left behind,” emphasized Sorawong during his Saturday briefing.
Among the relief measures, a one-month exemption on tap water and electricity bills will be granted to households in the flood-stricken areas. In addition, the government is extending soft loans with remarkably low interest rates to help rejuvenate the tourism businesses that are the backbone of these communities.
But the government’s response doesn’t stop there. They are eager to hear from those directly impacted. “We are open to any suggestions that will contribute to a more effective compensation scheme,” Sorawong noted, urging operators to voice their concerns and share details on the extent of their damages. The goal is to roll out these aid measures within two weeks, pending a thorough damage assessment from various sectors, including a detailed evaluation by the ministry at each affected site.
Meanwhile, government officials are making rounds to offer immediate support. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat and Prime Minister’s Office Minister Jiraporn Sindhuprai recently visited Nong Khai province, which has been grappling with the overflow of the Mekong River since Sept 13. They distributed 1,000 packs of essential supplies, including food, to locals in Muang and Tha Bo districts.
Julapun announced the approval of a 3 billion baht compensation budget, with a portion already allocated to the 20 million baht emergency fund set aside by the Nong Khai provincial administration. He assured that the province could request an additional 100 million baht from the Central Budget Bureau if needed, ensuring no stone is left unturned in recovery efforts.
Interior Ministry spokeswoman Traisuree Taisaranakul reported that Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Social Development and Human Security Minister Varawut Silpa-archa have also been on the ground in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Despite some floodwaters receding, they left behind a staggering amount of mud, especially in Chiang Rai’s Mae Sai district. The ministers not only visited affected residents but also rolled up their sleeves and joined locals in clean-up activities in Mae Ai district, demonstrating a hands-on approach to disaster recovery.
This multi-front response underscores the government’s commitment to mitigating the flood’s impact swiftly and comprehensively. As officials continue their assessments and relief efforts, the collaboration between government bodies and locals will be crucial in restoring normalcy to the affected provinces.
This is just another political stunt. Does anyone really believe they care about the people?
They are definitely doing more than just talking. Look at the emergency funds they released!
Emergency funds sound good on paper, but how much of it will reach the people?
Joe, you’re so cynical. Can’t you see the positive impact already happening?
Joe has a point. Often, these funds get lost in bureaucracy and corruption.
These floods are devastating. It’s good to see immediate support for affected communities.
I agree. Quick action can make a huge difference for recovery.
Does anyone ever check if these quick actions are effective long-term?
Nancy and Chanachai, yes, the initial impact is crucial. The follow-up is what matters the most though.
The one-month exemption on tap water and electricity is a good start, but a month is nothing. They need more sustained support.
Exactly, more needs to be done to actually help them recover longer term.
Agreed, but it’s a step in the right direction. Let’s be patient.
Always asking citizens to be patient while they waste time on bureaucracy.
It’s interesting they are providing soft loans. Hope it doesn’t put them in more debt.
Shame on the government for not preventing this flood in the first place.
Natural disasters are hard to predict, Somchai.
Still, they could have implemented better flood defenses earlier.
Rungtiwa, exactly! It’s negligence at its finest.
All talk, no action—what’s new?
I hope they follow through on their promise to listen to locals.
The clean-up efforts in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are inspiring. Hands-on approach is what we need more of.
Hope the 3 billion baht compensation doesn’t get misappropriated.
That’s always a concern, unfortunately.
It will be misappropriated. Mark my words.
Seeing ministers roll up their sleeves is great, but they need to ensure all regions get equal attention.
Floods are becoming more frequent. We need a permanent solution, not just temporary relief.
The collaboration between government bodies and locals is key. No one solution fits all.
I’m worried the loans will just burden small businesses who are already struggling.
Good point, Samsak. These measures need to be balanced to avoid making the situation worse.
It’s good to see some action, but I fear it’s driven by upcoming elections.
Political motives are always behind these ‘acts of kindness.’
Let’s be fair, give them a chance before criticizing everything.
Transparency is vital. We need to keep government officials accountable.
Motorists affected by the floods need support too. Any word on that?
Exactly! They seem to focus on businesses, what about individuals?
Support everyone, not just businesses. Agreed.