Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, right, and her team from the Pheu Thai Party paid a crucial visit to the flood-stricken areas and victims in Sukhothai’s Sawankhalok district yesterday. The effort underscores the Pheu Thai Party’s commitment to supporting communities in times of crisis.
Addressing concerns about potential flooding in Bangkok, Prime Minister Paetongtarn assured the public that the capital is not at risk. She pointed out that neither the current water levels in Bangkok nor the weather conditions suggest any immediate danger comparable to the catastrophic floods in 2011. “We are well-prepared, and the circumstances this year are far less severe,” she emphasized.
During her visit to Sukhothai, the Prime Minister engaged directly with residents whose homes and farmlands have been overwhelmed by flooding. “I’ve listened to many stories and understand the hardships people are facing. It’s heartening to see the water levels beginning to recede. Each flood brings significant loss and suffering, so my priority is to extend all possible help to the affected communities,” she said with determination.
There’s been widespread concern about a massive influx of water from the North heading towards the Central regions and Bangkok. However, Paetongtarn reassured that the upper dams have sufficient capacity to hold back this water, mitigating any downstream flooding risks. “Bangkok is safe,” she stated confidently. “No severe storms are in the forecast, so there’s no immediate threat of flooding in the capital.”
Reflecting on the devastating floods of 2011, which were triggered by five major storms, Paetongtarn noted that this year, forecasts suggest a maximum of two storms—or possibly none at all. She underlined that the rainfall this year wouldn’t match the volume experienced in that dreadful year. Addressing preparations for increased rainfall during September and October, she asserted that the government has taken adequate measures to prepare for any eventualities.
Meanwhile, in the northeastern region of Nakhon Phanom, authorities declared Na Thom and Sri Songkhram districts disaster zones after three major tributaries of the Mekong River— the Nam Oun, Nam Songkhram, and Nam Yam rivers—overflowed. This natural event has inundated over 20,000 rai of paddy fields, causing widespread distress among the local farming communities.
Reports indicate that the Mekong River’s water level surged to nearly 11 meters yesterday, just one meter shy of the overflow threshold. Provincial authorities swiftly took action, declaring the affected districts disaster zones. Safety measures have been enforced rigorously. All boats operating in the flooded areas must now be equipped with proper safety gear, and boat drivers have been instructed to navigate with heightened caution to prevent any accidents.
The government’s dedication to mitigating the impact of these natural disasters is evident in its rapid response and comprehensive disaster management strategies. While challenges persist, the collaborative efforts between the government and local communities offer a beacon of hope for a swift recovery and more resilient future.
I don’t trust these assurances about Bangkok’s safety. Remember 2011? The government always says they’re prepared, but look what happened back then!
But the PM mentioned that the circumstances this year are different. Fewer storms and better preparations. That’s reassuring, don’t you think?
Different or not, the question is: Can we trust the government to deliver on their promises? They’ve failed us before.
Well, saying is one thing, doing is another. Let’s hope they really are better prepared this time.
Exactly, actions speak louder than words. Just hoping they’ve learned from past mistakes.
Totally! My family was affected last time. Praying it won’t happen again.
The community support efforts seem very touching. It’s good to see leaders getting involved directly with the affected people.
It’s all just for show. Politicians always do this during disasters to gain public sympathy.
You might be right, but even if it’s for show, it still brings resources and attention to those in need.
True. But we’ve got to keep pressure on them to make sure the help doesn’t stop after the cameras leave.
I’m impressed by the rapid response and rigorous safety measures in Nakhon Phanom. It shows some improvements in disaster management.
Yes, but let’s see how long it lasts. Governments are quick to respond but often slow to follow through on long-term aid.
That’s true. Continued support is crucial for long-term recovery.
The mention of dam capacities is quite relieving. Knowing that upstream dams can handle the influx gives some peace of mind.
People worrying about flooding in Bangkok need to chill out. The city has improved its flood defenses significantly since 2011.
It’s easy to say chill, but many people lost everything back then. A little worry is justified.
Still, recent infrastructure developments should give us some confidence. It’s not 2011 anymore.
As a farmer in the affected areas, I can say that any government help is welcome. We need all the support we can get right now.
While it’s good that the PM is assuring us, local preparedness and individual actions are just as important. Don’t rely solely on the government.
It’s unfortunate but true that we often see a lot of promises and little actual help. Let’s hold them accountable this time.
Couldn’t agree more. It’s time we see real action!
Exactly, our words need to translate into pressure on leaders to ensure they follow through.
The way the PM spoke to the residents really resonated with me. She seems to understand their hardship on a personal level.
Actions, not words. We’ll see how understanding she is when it comes to actual policies and relief measures.
Anyone else worried about the environmental impact of so much flooding? These events are becoming more frequent and severe.
Three major tributaries of the Mekong River overflowing is a sign that something bigger is wrong. Climate change, perhaps?
Totally! We need to start addressing these issues at their root cause, not just deal with the aftermath.
Yes! It’s about time we took climate change seriously. More floods are just the start.
Declaring those districts disaster zones was the right call. Better safe than sorry, especially with such high water levels.
I hope all the measures the government is taking will help people rebuild soon. So much devastation is disheartening.
I’m not in favor of the government’s strategy. They should have anticipated this better and taken preventive measures sooner.
I’m just glad the government is doing something. It’s better than the inaction we saw in the past.
True, but we still need to push for constant improvement. Every disaster teaches us something new.
Let’s hope the forecasts are right and we really don’t experience any major storms this year. We could all use a break from these natural disasters.