Visits Chiang Rai stricken by floods, promises immediate aid and assistance from Paetongtarn
Chiang Rai province, Thailand, is currently grappling with floods caused by persistent heavy rainfall and overflow from rivers like the Sai River. Over 4,400 households have been affected, and the situation has been under close monitoring by both local and national authorities.
The Chiang Rai governor, Charin Thongsuk, has been actively coordinating flood preparedness and response. This includes issuing urgent instructions to local agencies, establishing 24-hour situation centers, protecting vulnerable groups, expediting water release from dams, and preparing water pumps for drainage.
At the national level, Thailand's Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) continues to monitor the flood situations in Chiang Rai and nearby provinces. They are focused on repairing and reinforcing flood defenses, continuous monitoring of weather and water conditions, and providing timely disaster warnings.
Recent reports indicate that floodwaters in Chiang Rai have started to recede, and tourism and travel conditions are gradually returning to normal. This suggests that relief and recovery efforts are effective.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra travelled to Chiang Rai province on Saturday, accompanied by Deputy Interior Minister Theerarat Samrejvanich, Permanent Secretary for the Interior Ministry Ansit Samphantharat, Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration Chaiwat Junthiraphong, and Director-General of the DDPM, Passakorn Bunyalak. Upon her arrival at Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai International Airport, she was welcomed by Deputy Governor Rujtisak Rangsi, local officials, and Pheu Thai list-MP Laong Tiyaprairat.
The prime minister then travelled to Ban Sop Pao in Phaya Mengrai district to monitor the flood situation and offer moral support to residents affected by the disaster. She also distributed relief packages and inspected the flood situation.
However, as of early August 2025, none of the current reports specifically reference the prime minister's direct involvement or leadership role in these flood relief efforts. The leadership on the ground appears to come from provincial authorities, especially the governor, and the national disaster agency.
In summary, flood relief in Chiang Rai is actively managed by local and national government agencies, with coordinated monitoring, evacuation preparedness, and recovery underway. However, there is no publicly available information confirming Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra leading these efforts as of August 2025.
- The ongoing flood situation in Chiang Rai province, Thailand, is not only a concern for local authorities but also international media, particularly news outlets focusing on general news, politics, and international affairs.
- Despite the lack of public acknowledgment, the involvement of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in the flood relief efforts could have significant implications for Thailand's political landscape, with potential effects on business, economy, culture, and perhaps foreign relations.
- If a internationally recognized leader such as the Prime Minister of Thailand is seen taking a proactive role in disaster relief, it could boost tourism and travel, which are crucial components of the province's economy.
- Conversely, any mismanagement or slow response from the government in handling these crises could negatively impact public opinion, potentially affecting political stability, and international relations.
