BANGKOK — The Thai government has announced a substantial recovery initiative addressing catastrophic flooding that has devastated the country’s southern region, resulting in significant casualties and widespread damage. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul formally acknowledged governmental shortcomings in disaster response during a Saturday press briefing, while outlining compensation measures for affected citizens.
Official statistics from the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation reveal the staggering scale of impact: approximately 1.4 million households encompassing 3.8 million individuals across twelve southern provinces have been affected by torrential rains. The confirmed death toll stands at 162 fatalities across eight provinces, with Songkhla province bearing the heaviest burden at 126 recorded deaths.
In a notable display of royal solidarity, King Maha Vajiralongkorn has pledged 100 million baht (approximately $3.11 million) to Hat Yai Hospital, which sustained severe flood damage, alongside committing royal support for funeral arrangements of all flood victims. This royal intervention complements government efforts as water levels finally began receding Saturday morning, allowing residents to return to their devastated properties.
Prime Minister Anutin confirmed that financial compensation distributions would commence next week, accompanied by additional relief measures including debt suspension programs and interest-free loans for business recovery and home repairs. The comprehensive response package comes amid growing public criticism regarding the government’s flood management capabilities, which the Prime Minister directly addressed during his field visits to affected communities.