Deputy PM Establishes Flood Command Center With Three Ministries
Deputy PM Pipat Ratchakitprakarn established a flood command center in Songkhla involving three ministries and private sector partners to implement watershed-wide water management before the monsoon season arrives.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn chaired a meeting in Songkhla to coordinate water management and flood mitigation efforts. The meeting included Songkhla Governor Ratthasart Chidchoo, Second Naval Region Commander Rear Admiral Theprithi Labhluea, Chamber of Commerce President Somphol Jangsirivattana, Thai Bankers Association President Thongchai Wassanaruangruangsuk, relevant government officials, and private sector representatives.
Pipat emphasized that the government is committed to seriously addressing Songkhla's flooding crisis. The meeting aims to gather data, proposals, and input from all sectors in preparation for the Prime Minister's July 10 visit and to present key issues to the cabinet. Pipat confirmed his readiness to coordinate establishing a War Room to integrate efforts across all agencies for surveillance, early warning, water management, evacuation, public assistance, and post-disaster economic recovery.
"The key is to take action before the rains arrive, not wait until flooding occurs," Pipat stated, calling for immediate solutions, pre-monsoon preparations, and long-term projects.
Pipat stressed that Songkhla's flooding cannot be addressed only in Had Yai District but requires a comprehensive watershed approach from upstream areas in Sadao, Natawi, Sabayai, and Chanae. He noted that lessons from the 2024 major floods demonstrate the necessity for structural planning and integrated water management system-wide.
The Royal Irrigation Department reported that current rainfall accumulation remains below normal, while three medium-sized reservoirs maintain adequate water levels. They identified 22 flood monitoring points and improved the early warning system for the Khlong Uthapao watershed, reducing notification time to 18-22 hours. Long-term plans include a 36.6 billion baht flood prevention system development covering dredging, drainage improvements, water diversion canals, and additional reservoir development.
The Transport Ministry reported progress on post-flood infrastructure recovery and plans to enhance water drainage efficiency through channel dredging.
