Natural Resources Minister Mobilizes Aid for Nan Flood Victims
Heavy rains triggered flash flooding across Nan Province on August 19, prompting the Natural Resources Minister to mobilize staff and equipment from multiple departments to assist affected residents in Pua District and beyond.
On August 20, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin issued urgent orders to departments under his ministry—including the National Parks, Wildlife and Plants Department, the Forestry Department, and the Nan Provincial Natural Resources and Environment Office—to rapidly mobilize staff and resources to assist and relieve residents affected by heavy rains, flash flooding, and flash floods in Nan Province. The minister emphasized close monitoring of the situation, ongoing coordination with local agencies, and prioritizing public safety and welfare.
Suchart explained that heavy rains in the early morning of August 19 triggered flash floods and flash floods across many areas of Nan Province, especially Pua District, damaging homes, property, and farmland. The government and ministry expressed concern for residents and ordered affiliated agencies to deploy full support for relief efforts while closely monitoring water levels to prepare for any ongoing developments.
"I have instructed all agencies under the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry to deploy immediately to assist residents fully, with public safety as the priority," Suchart said. "This includes helping move belongings, providing convenience to affected people, and preparing for immediate recovery operations once water levels drop and conditions are safe, so residents can return to normal life as soon as possible."
The Forestry Department, under Sukaith's orders, mobilized 50 staff members, 10 vehicles, and necessary equipment to support relief and area rehabilitation. Initial operations include helping residents move belongings, providing convenience to affected people, and supporting other tasks as needed. The National Parks, Wildlife and Plants Department also prepared to mobilize staff and local units to assist affected residents, closely monitoring water levels and conditions to enable swift assistance, with personnel, vehicles, and equipment ready as appropriate.
The Nan Provincial Natural Resources and Environment Office serves as the area coordinator, working with local government, local administrative organizations, and relevant agencies to assess the situation and community needs, then coordinating resources from Natural Resources and Environment Ministry departments to reach affected areas and residents quickly and comprehensively.
In the next phase, once water levels drop and conditions are safe, all Natural Resources and Environment Ministry agencies will coordinate with local government and agencies to support recovery operations.
