BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand is bracing for possible floods in 20 northeastern provinces. Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsri blames upstream Mekong countries for releasing water from dams without warning.
Songsak said the lack of notification leaves Thailand too little time to react to rising water levels. He spoke on August 10 at the Government House.
Mekong levels now driven by dams, not nature
According to Songsak, the Mekong River no longer follows natural patterns alone. The real cause is water being discharged from dams in upstream countries.
Mekong basin nations are supposed to coordinate before any such releases. Songsak said Thailand only learns about them after the water has already been let go.
20 provinces ordered to prepare for floods
Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has assigned deputy PMs to oversee water management in different regions. Songsak is responsible for the 20 northeastern provinces.
Last week he already called in the relevant authorities and gave orders to prepare for flooding. The provinces must set up measures to protect and support residents.
Nine measures heading to cabinet
Songsak plans to introduce nine measures at the next cabinet meeting. The goal is to ramp up flood preparations across all provinces.
Authorities must also learn from past disasters to avoid repeating old mistakes. Songsak said a comprehensive plan for dealing with both drought and floods already exists.
Foreign Ministry to take up talks with neighbours
When asked whether water is released first and Thailand informed later, Songsak confirmed that is what happens to his knowledge. Early notice is essential so protective steps can be taken in time.
We need timely information so we can prepare protection measures.
said Songsak Thongsri, Deputy Prime Minister.
The Foreign Ministry will now handle further coordination with Mekong countries. It will seek cooperation and push for earlier notification of planned dam discharges.