19/10/2024
The government is set to implement measures to boost the economy and support recovery efforts in the flood-affected northern provinces. Tourism is being prioritized as a key driver of economic recovery while authorities work to mitigate the immediate impacts of the recent deluge.
At a recent meeting, the Flood, Storm, and Landslide Disaster Relief Operations Center warned of continued heavy rainfall in several regions over the next two days. The Thai Meteorological Department also cautioned about unstable weather due to a cold air mass from China, bringing thunderstorms and heavy rain to the northeast, central, eastern, and southern regions. Provinces such as Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Ubon Ratchathani, Bangkok, Rayong, and Krabi are expected to experience significant downpours. Residents in vulnerable areas, particularly those near hillsides and low-lying regions, have been urged to stay alert to the risk of flash floods and runoff.
According to the center’s spokesperson, Jirayu Huangsap, recovery efforts in the northern provinces are progressing. In Chiang Rai, military forces report that 99% of flood-affected areas have been cleared. In Chiang Mai, local teams are focused on removing debris along the Ping River in preparation for the upcoming tourism season. The Ministry of Public Health has deployed emergency teams to flood-hit communities to address health risks such as waterborne diseases and to restore clean water and sanitation services.
These efforts align with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s target to complete flood recovery by the end of October, ensuring the region is prepared for the tourism season. The government tasked the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Tourism and Sport with introducing new initiatives and promotions to attract visitors and stimulate economic recovery in the affected areas.
