BANGKOK, 13 July 2015 – The Royal Thai Army is maintaining its supporting role in the search for a comprehensive solution to the drought disaster in Thailand in line with policies of the government and the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), the Deputy Army spokesperson Sirichan Ngathong disclosed on Monday.
Army chief Gen Udomdej Sitabutr has ordered military personnel to maintain a focus on measures to lessen the harsh effects of drought, in support of other government units.
Efforts are focused on the urgent supply and distribution of water for consumption and agricultural purposes, the drilling of eight groundwater wells in Ang Thong Province, and the sustainable development of water sources and delivery of assistance to people affected by the disaster.
The Peace and Order Maintaining Command (POMC) has been assigned by the NCPO to survey the extent of public hardship as a result of the disaster, so that assistance in the next stage is designed in response to real need.
Raising awareness of the proper use of water is a mission Gen Udomdej has emphasized. The spokesperson said the military is now educating farmers on how to adjust their planting practices to match land conditions and the amount of water available in their areas. In parallel, the military personnel are encouraging members of the public to use water economically and to share the use of the existing resources without prejudice.
