Phichit: Deputy Prime Minister Thammanat Prompao, accompanied by four ministers, has taken a proactive stance in addressing flood relief in Phichit. The Kla Tham Party’s leader emphasized the importance of returning to effective problem-solving and reducing agricultural production costs, while also reviving the rice sales delay project.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives Lt. Col. Thammanat Prompao was joined by Prof. Dr. Narumon Pinyosinwat, Minister of Education; Mr. Akara Prompao, Minister of Social Development and Human Security; Mr. Atthakorn Sirilathayakorn, Minister of Tourism and Sports; and Mr. Nares Thamrongtippayakun, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives. The delegation visited Phichit College of Agriculture and Technology to assess the flooding situation and provide relief. They distributed 2,000 relief bags, animal feed, medical supplies, and land title deeds to flood-affected residents.
Lt. Col. Thammanat highlighted the recurring nature of the floods, affecting regions from the northern headwaters to the Chao Phraya River basin, causing widespread damage. He stressed the need for structural solutions, such as building water reservoirs, reforestation, repairing floodgates, and implementing efficient drainage plans. The government’s immediate focus is on urgent relief and developing a sustainable long-term plan, with a call for cooperation among relevant agencies to expedite aid.
Addressing political challenges, Lt. Col. Thammanat criticized the lack of action from politicians once in parliament. He reaffirmed his commitment to resolving the political divide and expressed concern over the changing policies with governmental shifts, which impact the populace.
On agricultural issues, Lt. Col. Thammanat noted the significant burden of production costs on farmers, exacerbated by capitalist-controlled prices for fertilizers and pesticides. He proposed local production of fertilizers to halve costs, alongside a systematic rice sales delay program. He assured that measures to address price issues of rice, corn, and rubber, as well as production costs, would be presented to the Cabinet, promising continued efforts to resolve these challenges.
Prof. Dr. Narumon, regarding educational institutions affected by floods, committed to swift relief measures, including school repairs and support for students and teachers. Vocational schools have also initiated a Fix it Center to repair damaged equipment for those affected, free of charge.
Mr. Atthakorn announced plans to elevate Phichit’s historical and cultural sites to international prominence as part of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports’ efforts, aiming to attract foreign investment and boost community income.