On December 4, at Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park, Samut Prakan, Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed the Cabinet's approval on November 30 of a 5-billion-baht relief budget for flood-affected households in southern Thailand. Each household will receive 9,000 baht in 16 provinces. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha directed Anutin to prioritize southern relief efforts over attending a northern Cabinet meeting due to the severity of the situation. A special operations center has been established, with the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) director-general deployed to oversee local operations.
Following his field visit, Anutin reported that related agencies have assessed the damages and sought Cabinet approval for the funds. The approved budget aims to alleviate the suffering of affected residents, with all processes conducted in compliance with regulations. DDPM is expediting financial disbursements to affected households.
When asked about post-flood recovery policies, Anutin confirmed plans to address health, mental well-being, and property damage, though southern damages are considered less severe compared to northern floods involving mudslides and debris. Provincial governors and DDPM, supported by helicopters for essential deliveries, are actively managing the situation.