Cabinet Approves Extra 10.5 Billion Baht Flood Relief Fund
Thailand’s cabinet is set to approve an additional 10.5 billion baht for flood relief, as disclosed by Minister Phradit Prinanananthakul. He warned that officials who improperly certify eligibility will be held responsible, noting that delays stem from verification procedures, especially in Bangkok. Payments will continue smoothly once the budget is cleared.
Phradit Prinanananthakul, Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, disclosed before today’s cabinet meeting that the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation had proposed an extra 10.5 billion baht from the central budget for fiscal year 2027 to aid flood victims. He said the allocation should cover all remaining affected areas and affirmed that the matter would definitely be on today’s cabinet agenda. He added that disbursements would not stall because the previous day’s funds were still being paid out, and any approval today, tomorrow or the day after would allow immediate continuation of payments. However, he said the current slowdown lies in the verification process, not the money itself, citing Bangkok as an example where procedural bottlenecks differ from provinces that have faced no issues. He noted discussions with Deputy Interior Minister Worasil Liangprasert to speed up local checks while maintaining accuracy to avoid future complaints. Regarding the 9,000-baht household compensation, he explained that only those meeting the criteria—homeowners or residents of flooded homes with damage, or those isolated by water for seven days receiving 5,000 baht—are eligible; anyone else who improperly receives funds must be held accountable by local authorities, who will investigate and may pursue legal action if fraud is found. He stressed that while the government oversees budget allocation, detailed verification remains the responsibility of local agencies.
