A backhoe loads mud onto a truck in Mae Sai district of Thailand’s Chiang Rai province on Sunday. (Photo: Public Relations Department)
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has swiftly mobilized efforts to rid Chiang Rai of the thick layers of mud left in the wake of severe flooding. The task is mammoth, with an estimated 68,000 tonnes of flood-related debris cluttering this northernmost Thai province.
On Sunday at Wing 6 in Bangkok, Ms. Paetongtarn bid farewell to air force aircraft loaded with supplies, destined for the flood-stricken residents of Chiang Rai. These essential items, sourced from both governmental and private sectors, aim to bring relief to those affected.
Ms. Paetongtarn has directed officials to clear away the pervasive mud, prioritizing drainage systems before the sludge dries and becomes even more challenging to remove. In an inspiring act of generosity, His Majesty the King has donated 100 high-pressure water cleaners to expedite the cleanup operation.
The prime minister assured that financial aid for flood victims would commence in November, while the Commerce Ministry is tasked with stabilizing the prices of essential goods to prevent exploitation during this critical period.
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed the collaboration of multiple agencies in the cleanup mission, including the Highways Department, the military, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, the Department of Corrections, and numerous volunteers. The collective effort demonstrates a unified stance in tackling this enormous task.
68,000 Tonnes of Garbage
The armed forces, in conjunction with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, are on a mission to locate approximately 50 rai of land suitable for dumping the massive amount of garbage and debris. According to Gen Theerayut Jinhiran, commander of the Armed Forces Development Command, the mud within flooded homes in Chiang Rai reaches depths of one to two meters, underscoring the severity of the situation.
In a display of community spirit, business magnate Tan Passakornnatee has stepped forward to rent 30 small backhoes along with their drivers, and 90 six- and ten-wheeled trucks for a 30-day period to aid in the monumental clean-up operation.
Surin Worakitthamrong, deputy director-general of the Pollution Control Department, highlighted the enormity of the waste problem. Muang and Mae Sai districts alone account for 68,000 tonnes of garbage, with Muang district bearing the brunt with 50,000 tonnes.
To date, 9,400 tonnes have been dealt with, leaving about 58,600 tonnes still to be cleared in these two districts. It’s a Herculean task, but the combined efforts of various sectors suggest it can be done.
The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation reported ongoing flooding in eight provinces on Sunday. Provinces still grappling with floodwaters include Chiang Rai, Lampang, Tak, Phitsanulok, Nong Khai, Nakhon Phanom, Ayutthaya, and Pathum Thani, impacting approximately 16,960 families.
The crisis may be daunting, but the spirit of unity and collective action offers hope. With coordinated efforts and unwavering resolve, a cleaner, safer Chiang Rai is on the horizon.
Great to see the PM taking swift action! This cleanup effort will really make a difference for the people of Chiang Rai.
It’s about time! The government should have been more prepared for these floods in the first place.
Disasters are tough to prepare for. At least they’re responding effectively now.
TruePatriot, what do you expect? Climate change is making these events more severe. It’s not just about preparation but also long-term mitigation efforts!
While it’s good they’re doing something, I worry about how sustainable this aid is. What’s the plan after the immediate cleanup?
Isn’t anyone curious about the environmental impact of dumping all that debris somewhere else?
Good point. Moving the problem doesn’t solve it. More long-term thinking needed!
Exactly, it’s short-sighted. Let’s see if any comprehensive waste management plans follow.
consider_this, I agree. This massive debris relocation could cause other issues down the line.
Incredible to see such coordinated effort from government and private sectors. Perhaps this sets a new standard for disaster response in Thailand?
Chang M., let’s wait and see. Actions often speak louder than initial promises.
Why did it take so long for financial aid to start? November seems quite far off when people are suffering now.
Government processes are often slow, unfortunately. But isn’t late aid better than no aid?
Megan V., emergency funds should be more readily available. Bureaucracy often delays the help that people need.
Tan Passakornnatee renting backhoes and trucks is a really generous act. More wealthy individuals should step up like this.
Cynical view: he’s probably doing it for publicity. Business magnates often have ulterior motives.
skeptical_me, does it matter if it helps people? Motivation aside, it’s still aid.
Flood-prone areas need better long-term solutions, like improved drainage systems. Temporary cleanups only go so far.
Absolutely. Permanent infrastructure changes are essential to prevent future disasters.
risk_taker, very true! But given current resources and priorities, quick fixes might be the best they can do right now.
I think the King’s donation of high-pressure water cleaners is genuinely heartwarming. Shows that the monarchy still cares about the people.
happyHiker, isn’t that the least he could do? The monarchy has vast resources, they should do more.
Coordination between so many agencies is certainly impressive. Wonder if other countries are taking notes on how Thailand handles this.
Is anyone talking about the psychological impact on the flood victims? Clean-ups are great, but mental health support is also crucial.
58,600 tonnes still to clear?! Seems like it’s only the beginning of a long struggle. Hope the momentum keeps up.
John, agreed. The initial push is promising, but sustaining it will be the real challenge.
Why is nobody pointing out the role of deforestation in these recurrent floods? Until environmental issues are addressed, this will keep happening.
Bravo to the volunteers! These heroes rarely get the recognition they deserve. Let’s give a shoutout to the real MVPs.
Let’s hope they don’t just stop at Chiang Rai. Flooding is impacting a lot of lives across multiple provinces!
Right, it’s a nationwide issue. Combining efforts at all levels is crucial for a comprehensive response.
8 provinces still grappling with floods… The government should consider revising its flood preparedness plans entirely.
Jane Doe, absolutely. We’ve been hit hard, and it’s time for a more resilient approach.
Wonder how many people will take this as another sign to push for better climate policies in Thailand.
The spirit of unity and collective action mentioned is inspiring. We need more stories like this globally.