Bangkok: Phumtham Wechayachai, the acting Prime Minister of Thailand and Deputy Prime Minister, has directed the Director-General of the Provincial Administration and the Department of Local Administration to expedite relief efforts for citizens in seven provinces along the Thai-Cambodian border. The directive comes with a stern warning that any delays will be deemed neglectful.

According to Thai News Agency, Phumtham summoned Mr. Nirat Phongsitthaworn, Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration, and Police Lieutenant Colonel Phopchanok Chalanukroh, Director-General of the Department of Local Administration, to ensure they are prepared to continue their duties effectively. Their responsibilities include the care and assistance of evacuees housed in 733 evacuation centers across the seven provinces, accommodating a total of 187,974 people. The Directors-General are tasked with addressing any issues promptly and ensuring all necessary provisions are supplied.

Phumtham has instructed the Department of Local Administration to assess the extent of damage to homes and determine whether repairs are needed. The estimated costs will be covered by donations through the Government House Disaster Relief Fund. He also mobilized vocational students and military personnel to assist in repairing the buildings, aiming for completion within a month after the ceasefire. However, the certainty of the ceasefire remains in question.

In addressing the subsequent phase of assistance, Phumtham announced an emergency budget increase for each province from 50 million baht to 100 million baht. He stressed the importance of a swift assessment of damages by provincial governors to avoid being deemed derelict in their duties. This budget is expected to be more efficiently disbursed than the Ministry of Interior’s funds.

Emphasizing government concern for the public, Phumtham reassured citizens that measures are being taken to address their needs and urged them to remain calm.