Surin: The Governor of Surin has officially declared a war disaster zone due to the escalating situation at the Thai-Cambodian border, allowing local administrative bodies to mobilize resources to assist affected citizens.
According to Thai News Agency, government spokesman Mr. Jirayu Huangsap, who is also a member of the Thai-Cambodian Border Situation Administration (TBSA), announced that Governor Chamnan Chuenta has signed a declaration elevating the situation to a war disaster zone. This move categorizes the situation on par with natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes. The escalation particularly affects the districts of Buachet, Sangkha, Kabchoeng, and Phanom Dongrak, posing risks to public health facilities, gas stations, convenience stores, and community areas.
Mr. Jirayu clarified that the announcement aims to classify the conflict as a “public disaster” under the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act of 2007 and the Ministry of Finance Regulations on Emergency Relief Funds for Disaster Victims of 2019. This designation permits local administrative organizations to utilize their budgets immediately to aid those needing evacuation or other assistance. If current funds are insufficient, local authorities are authorized to access accumulated funds, considering the financial status of their organizations.
The provincial government advises residents in affected areas to stay informed through provincial alerts and adhere to guidelines, such as avoiding large gatherings and steering clear of areas within a 120-kilometer radius of the border. Temporary avoidance includes military bases, hospitals, schools, department stores, convenience stores, and densely populated communities. Residents who must travel to at-risk areas are encouraged to minimize travel time and return home promptly, particularly in districts near the border.
Furthermore, individuals in areas vulnerable to the Thai-Cambodian conflict are advised to keep their mobile phones fully charged and switched on, as the Cell Broadcasting Service is operational around the clock. In case of an incident, immediate alerts will be sent to all mobile devices. Media personnel are also urged to consider their safety due to the tense situation in the Surin border province.
Mr. Jirayu also requested public cooperation by refraining from sharing sensitive information and reporting any online harassment or attacks on Thai state media to military authorities.