Government Reserves 4 Billion Baht for Flood Relief
The government allocated 4 billion baht for flood relief nationwide, with assistance to follow legal criteria set by local agencies rather than a fixed 9,000-baht per-household payment. The cabinet also approved a 160-billion-baht, eight-ye
On September 29, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and the Interior Minister held a press conference at Government House following a cabinet meeting to discuss flood relief measures. The government has reserved approximately 4 billion baht from remaining central budget funds to help people affected by flooding across the country, not just Bangkok. When asked whether each household would receive 9,000 baht, Anutin said assistance must follow legal criteria and be proposed by local areas and agencies through a committee structure. Managing natural disasters currently involves deputy prime ministers and ministers overseeing different regions, with Defence Minister General Anudom Boonthammachayo recently appointed as the cabinet's representative overseeing Bangkok.
Regarding the Chai Nat–Pa Sak–Gulf of Thailand project, which would serve as an alternative water drainage channel for the Chao Phraya River, the cabinet approved a budget of 160 billion baht over eight years. Once completed, the project will significantly improve flood prevention across the central region, Bangkok, and its vicinity while allowing water storage, functioning as a natural flood retention area. Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsri, who oversees the National Water Resources Office, will chair a meeting to adjust criteria allowing local authorities to construct water retention structures and water diversion systems for use during the dry season.
When asked about the project's funding source and whether loans would be involved, Anutin said both domestic and international loan options are being considered, with discussions ongoing among the Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry, the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council, the Budget Bureau, and the Finance Ministry. Anutin denied reports that rescue workers were banned from distributing food without the prime minister visiting first, calling such claims false and stating that all relief operations follow established systems. He praised all sectors and volunteer rescue units for their support while confirming the government has coordinated food supplies, kitchen operations, and mobile food units. He also instructed the incoming Bangkok permanent secretary and the irrigation department chief to accelerate water pumping from flood-affected areas.
