Royal Rainmaking Director Seeks Blessings and Vows Not to Tolerate Political Interference Before Inspecting Operations

On May 6, 2025, Rachen Silparaiya, director of the Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department, traveled to Phitsanulok Province to implement policy directives and accelerate cloud seeding operations in the region and neighboring provinces. On this auspicious day, Rachen visited Wat Rajaboorana in Muang District, Phitsanulok Province, to pay respects to Phra Kru Siddhitham Wibat, the temple's revered abbot, and received sacred blessings. This spiritual visit followed a similar blessing ceremony recently conducted by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and his wife with the same venerable monk.

In addressing the abbot, Rachen revealed that he submitted his resignation from civil service on April 29 to uphold civil servant dignity and refuse political interference, stating he remains loyal to the Thai Crown. During media interviews regarding drought conditions and rainmaking efforts, Rachen explained that over the next 2-3 months, El Niño weather patterns will bring extended dry periods. He noted that May through early June represent a critical window to conduct cloud seeding operations in areas with sufficient atmospheric moisture. Currently, 5-6 rainmaking bases operate nationwide, with Phitsanulok and Nakhon Sawan newly activated to serve the public and replenish water supplies.

When asked about drought duration projections, Rachen stated that El Niño is expected to cause an 18-month drought period, currently in its early stages with more severe conditions anticipated in two months. The department is targeting all suitable areas with adequate atmospheric conditions for seeding operations, reviewing all requests through social media channels and other sources to deploy aircraft wherever feasible.