BANGKOK, 27 September 2013 Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra will visit flooded areas in Pathum Thani, Prachin Buri, Si Sa Ket, and Ubon Ratchathani Provinces this weekend.
The Prime Minister informed the Parliament of her plan during a recent round of Q&A Session when Democrat MP Kuladej Puapattanakul inquired her about the progress of the Government’s flood relief efforts.
Mr. Kuladej expressed concerns that officials would not be able to drain flood water fast enough as water levels in most rivers and tributaries continue to gain volume especially in the northern part of the kingdom, and that the 2011 flood crisis might be repeated.
Meanwhile, Mr. Nut Jabjai, Deputy Director General of the Marine Department, indicated that his unit is ready to deal with an expected rising volume of the Gulf-bound northern stream by preparing personnel, boats and equipment at various strategic stations along the Chao Phraya River in order to drain excessive water into the sea.
In addition, as the water level in the Chao Phraya is rising, Mr. Nut said warnings have been made to passenger boat operators to refrain from speeding and potentially disturb locals along the banks.
Army Chief General Prayuth Chan-Ocha chimed in on the current flood situation, expressed his optimism that this year’s flooding would not be as severe as last year’s. He nonetheless has instructed his troop to closely monitor the situations while reinforcing 4,050 military officers, 147 trucks and 67 boats for assisting the Government’s flood relief efforts.
