Bangkok: Schools and hospitals in Ubon Ratchathani reopened today following the resolution of the Thai-Cambodian clashes that had previously caused significant disruption in the area. The situation at the Thai-Cambodian border in Surin Province remains stable, although residents are still apprehensive and preparing for potential evacuations.
According to Thai News Agency, the recent shooting on the Thai-Cambodian border led to widespread alarm among villagers, prompting many to relocate temporarily to Kantharalak District. Despite reassurances that the situation was under control, some villagers opted to stay with relatives in other districts. Government offices in Kantharalak District continue to operate as usual, although some schools have shifted to online learning as a precautionary measure.
In Surin Province, border schools are maintaining closure and providing online classes to ensure safety. Parents are concerned about the ongoing instability and have been granted the option to keep their children at home. Some schools in Phanom Dong Rak District have announced online learning from August 13-15, although others have resumed normal classes without mandatory attendance. A LINE group for parents has communicated that leave is permitted for those still apprehensive.
The reopening of schools and hospitals in Ubon Ratchathani marks a significant step towards normalcy following closures due to the unrest that began on July 24th. At Ban Song School in Nam Yuen District, teachers and students engaged in cleanup activities and reviewed emergency procedures. Despite this, only about 300 of the nearly 500 students attended, reflecting lingering parental concerns. The school had previously evacuated students rapidly during the initial clashes.
Hospitals in Nam Yuen District have also resumed operations, though patient numbers remain low, likely due to prior arrangements for medication delivery during the evacuation period.
In Ban Kruat District near the Buriram Province border, the first-day reopening of schools saw low attendance, with less than 40 percent of students present. This was attributed to ongoing parental concerns and readiness to evacuate if needed.