The Interior Ministry is set to propose a substantial increase in financial aid for flood victims at the upcoming cabinet meeting on Tuesday. As announced by Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has directed the Ministry of Finance to allocate an additional 3 billion baht from the central budget to support those affected in 57 provinces.
On Wednesday, funds earmarked for the Comptroller General’s Department were redirected to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation to expedite relief efforts. Minister Anutin confirmed that a detailed survey commenced on the same day to identify eligible recipients who will receive financial aid ranging from 5,000 to 9,000 baht per household.
“Despite our best efforts, we recognize that even 9,000 baht per household may fall short of the needs,” Minister Anutin admitted. “We are determined to offer more comprehensive support and will bring this matter to the cabinet for approval on October 1.”
In terms of home repairs, the Ministry of Interior has earmarked a separate budget of 49,500 baht per household. “We are proactively seeking additional support from various departments, including the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, which both have existing assistance measures,” he added.
Meanwhile, Deputy Interior Minister Theerarat Samrejvanich fielded questions about the government’s flood relief measures in parliament yesterday. She outlined three primary budgets dedicated to aiding flood victims.
The first budget, amounting to 3 billion baht, is intended for households across 57 provinces, with each household slated to receive 5,000-9,000 baht. “The initial group to receive relief funds will be residents in Mae Sai district, Chiang Rai, starting this week,” Deputy Minister Theerarat announced.
A second budget is sourced from the disaster relief fund, offering a maximum of 230,000 baht per household in cases where the home is completely destroyed, she elaborated.
Additionally, the central fund’s third budget allocates 20 million baht to each of the 57 affected provinces to provide further assistance. Beyond these measures, the government has approved an additional 100 million baht each for the hardest-hit provinces of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Similar allocations are expected for Phayao, Lampang, and Sukhothai, which face imminent flood risks.
As the government ramps up its efforts, citizens and local agencies are hopeful that the increased financial aid and extensive relief measures will lessen the devastating impact of the floods, helping communities to rebuild and recover more swiftly.
I appreciate the effort, but seriously, 9,000 baht is like a drop in the ocean for families who have lost everything.
You’re right, James! The amount seems insufficient, but at least it’s a start. Better something than nothing at all.
That’s a fair point, Lina. However, I feel the government should prioritize better planning and long-term solutions rather than just throwing money at the problem.
Agreed, James. Emergency funds help, but sustainable infrastructure and proper flood prevention measures would be more impactful in the long run.
I think it’s too easy to criticize from the sidelines. At least the government is doing something!
Makes me wonder where all this money is really going. Corruption is rampant, not convinced it’ll reach those in need.
Prasit, corruption is always a concern but let’s give them the benefit of the doubt this time and monitor closely to see what happens.
Albert, naive much? Governments have failed us too many times before. Prasit has a point. Transparency is paramount.
So maybe we need a watchdog or independent organization to oversee the distribution of these funds?
Wouldn’t it make more sense to invest in prevention rather than just relief? Building levees, better drainage systems, and early warning systems?
Totally agree, grower134! Reactive solutions only serve as temporary fixes. Let’s push for more proactive measures!
Proactive measures cost a lot more and take years to implement. The people suffering now need immediate help!
True, G. Patana, but we have to start somewhere. Combining immediate relief with long-term planning should be the way forward.
I’m impressed with Anutin’s approach. Redirecting funds swiftly shows urgency and commitment. More politicians should follow this lead.
Anutin’s approach seems right, but don’t be too quick to praise. Let’s see how effectively the funds are used first.
Exactly, Duan! Actions speak louder than words. If funds reach the right hands, then applauds are in order.
This just feels like another PR move. Real change needs structural reform, not just a financial band-aid.
Structural reform is too slow though. People need help NOW. The floods won’t wait for bureaucracy to catch up.
Exactly, Joshie. Immediate needs must be met first. We can talk about reforms after people are safe.
Couldn’t they also allocate more funds towards temporary housing or shelters? The current allocation seems more like a one-time payout.
Yes! Tom, that’s a great point. Temporary housing could provide safety and stability until permanent solutions are in place.
Absolutely, Maya. If they’re going to spend billions, they should consider a multi-faceted approach.
Hope this plan includes proper oversight to ensure the funds aren’t misused. The last thing we need is more scandal.
I’m skeptical, but let’s see if this ‘detailed survey’ is indeed comprehensive and accurate.
Josef, skepticism is valid, but let’s also provide constructive feedback. Detailed surveys are crucial for such relief measures.
These funds won’t fix the mental health issues caused by the floods. More emphasis needed on psychological support.
Where’s the input from the residents? They should have a voice in how this money is allocated!
Vikas, I agree. Community-led initiatives often have a better grasp on local needs.
Exactly, Chantha! Send the funds where it’ll do the most good according to the people on the ground.
I hope this isn’t just political theatre. An election is around the corner and this seems too well-timed.
Does anyone know if there are plans for sustainable farming measures? Agriculture takes a massive hit during floods.
I think a mix of immediate aid and infrastructure investment is necessary. Why does it have to be one or the other?