(Photo: Royal Thai Air Force)
The government is fast-tracking a comprehensive compensation plan for tourism businesses devastated by the recent floods in Thailand’s Nong Khai province, announced an official. Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sorawong Thienthong, revealed on Saturday that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s administration had deliberated on the plan since Wednesday.
“We’re rolling out several measures, including a one-month exemption on tap water and electricity bills for households impacted by the floods,” Sorawong stated. The government isn’t stopping there; they’re also extending soft loans with low-interest rates to affected tourism businesses.
Sorawong emphasized the importance of feedback from operators to fine-tune the compensation scheme, stating, “We welcome any suggestions that will enhance the success of our compensation plan. Your insights are crucial for assessing the damages accurately.”
The aid measures aim to be operational in about two weeks, as various sectors continue with their damage assessments. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports will also conduct individual damage assessments at each site.
Meanwhile, government officials have been on the ground, visiting the flooded regions to check on residents affected by the disaster. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat and Prime Minister’s Office Minister Jiraporn Sindhuprai paid a visit to Nong Khai province in the Northeast, one of the hardest-hit areas since the Mekong River overflowed its banks on Sept 13. They distributed 1,000 packs of essential supplies and food to locals in Muang and Tha Bo districts.
Julapun mentioned that the government had allocated a compensation budget of 3 billion baht. “Parts of this will supplement the 20 million baht budget set aside by the Nong Khai provincial administration to assist locals. Should there be a need for further financial aid, the province can request an additional 100 million baht from the Central Budget Bureau,” he added.
Traisuree Taisaranakul, a spokeswoman for the Interior Ministry, reported that Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Social Development and Human Security Minister Varawut Silpa-archa traveled to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. “Although some areas have dried up, a significant amount of mud remains, particularly in Chiang Rai’s Mae Sai district,” she noted.
The ministers also visited flood victims in Chiang Mai’s Mae Ai district, where they joined locals in a community cleaning activity. It’s clear that the government’s efforts go beyond just financial aid—they’re also offering hands-on support to help the affected communities get back on their feet.
Finally, the government steps in! But why did it take so long?
It’s bureaucracy, things always move slow.
But people are suffering and they take their sweet time!?
Exactly. The government should’ve acted faster.
The soft loans are a great idea, but what about those who can’t take on more debt?
True. Not everyone can afford to pay back loans, even if they’re low-interest.
Exactly, some direct financial aid would be much better in those cases.
Direct financial aid should be prioritized for the most vulnerable.
One month exemption on bills is a joke. The damages last much longer than that!
What’s the point of 3 billion baht if it can’t be utilized efficiently? More transparency needed!
It’s good to see ministers on the ground. Actions speak louder than words.
Yeah, but how effective is their ‘hands-on’ approach really?
At least they are showing up and helping. Better than nothing.
Is it just me, or does it seem like they are only helping because tourism brings in money?
Absolutely. It’s all about the money, not the people.
Exactly. If it was about the people, other areas would get help first.
Maybe, but tourism is a major part of the economy.
I think both financial aid and loans should be used to support the recovery efforts.
Flooding is becoming too frequent. When will the government address the root causes?
Totally agree! They need a long-term plan that tackles climate change issues.
Climate change policies should be a priority in government planning.
Community cleaning activities? That’s great! We need more of this sense of unity.
Sure, but hopefully, it’s not just a photo-op for politicians.
Relief is good but long-term solutions are better. Investment in infrastructure is key.
Just 1,000 packs of supplies for the entire region? Seems insufficient.
How about stormwater management systems? Any plans for those?
The compensation scheme sounds promising, but only if it’s implemented effectively.
Meh, I think it’s just a political stunt to gain favor.
What about mental health support for those affected by these disasters?
Mental health support should indeed be part of disaster relief.
As someone who frequently visits Nong Khai, I hope this helps revive tourism.
It’s good that they’re seeking feedback from operators. Bottom-up approach always helps.
3 billion baht won’t last long if it’s not managed well. Let’s see what happens.
Let’s hope the province doesn’t have to beg for the additional 100 million baht.