BANGKOK, Aug. 22 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's caretaker Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai on Thursday directed government agencies to expedite relief operations as continuous heavy rainfall led to widespread flooding in several areas of the Southeast Asian country.
In a statement, Phumtham instructed authorities to prioritize relief efforts and accelerate water management and drainage operations as over 12,000 households in seven northern and northeastern provinces remained affected by monsoon-induced flooding, causing extensive damage to homes, roads and agricultural areas.
He also called on relevant agencies to be on high alert as the situation remains unpredictable, as well as urging residents to follow official guidance from provincial disaster prevention offices and stay informed through government channels. ■
