PHITSANULOK: Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantarawongthong visited Phitsanulok and Phichit provinces to provide support to flood victims, expedite water drainage efforts, and discuss long-term sustainable water management solutions.
According to Thai News Agency, on October 13, 2024, Mr. Prasert Jantarawongthong, who also serves as the Minister of Digital Economy and Society and Chairman of the National Water Resources Committee, toured the flood-affected regions alongside Dr. Surasee Kittimondol, Secretary-General of the Office of National Water Resources, and other relevant agency representatives. The delegation visited the Yom-Nan River basin, where they met with local residents, distributed relief bags, and reviewed the current flood management strategies.
During his visit, Mr. Prasert emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the immediate needs of the flood victims and the importance of swift action to restore normalcy. He ordered urgent measures to drain floodwaters, particularly in resid
ential areas, and highlighted the need for meticulous water management transitioning from the rainy to the dry season. The Deputy Prime Minister also instructed relevant authorities to conduct urgent repairs of water barriers and embankments and to ensure the stability and safety of dams.
For long-term flood mitigation, Mr. Prasert outlined a comprehensive approach that includes revising water management practices to adapt to changing climate conditions and spatial contexts. He cited the Bang Rakam Model, a natural flood retention project, as an effective example of sustainable water management that can mitigate flooding in community areas.
Dr. Surasee reported that currently, 19 provinces are experiencing flooding, but reassured that there is no immediate threat of new storms affecting the region until at least October 20, 2024. He also provided updates on the water levels in major reservoirs within the Yom and Nan River Basins, noting that most are at high capacity.
The central government has approved bu
dgets for water resource management projects in both Phitsanulok and Phichit provinces, which include the construction of new water systems and the improvement of existing facilities to enhance water distribution and storage capacities, benefiting hundreds of households.