BANGKOK — In a rare admission of lapses, Anutin Charnvirakul has acknowledged that the government failed to protect the people of southern Thailand as devastating floods wreaked havoc across the region. The floods, triggered by torrential rains, have now claimed at least 162 lives and disrupted the lives of millions.
The deluge has battered 12 southern provinces, forcing more than 1.4 million households, roughly 3.8 million people, into crisis, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. The worst-hit region is the province of Songkhla, where at least 126 of the deaths have been recorded.
Visibly shaken, the Prime Minister visited the flood-ravaged areas and offered a public apology to the affected residents, saying the government “was unable to take care and protect them.” He conceded that authorities missed critical steps in both preparing for and responding to the crisis.
As waters recede and the scale of destruction becomes clear, the government outlined a three-pronged relief strategy. Compensation payments will begin rolling out next week. Those affected will also be offered debt suspension and short-term, interest-free loans to help rebuild homes or businesses. Additionally, a funeral subsidy has been promised to help families cope with the loss of loved ones.
Residents returning to their villages for the first time since the deluge described chaotic scenes. Floodwaters had submerged entire neighborhoods, wrecking homes, sweeping away vehicles, and damaging essential infrastructure. As water levels dropped, commuters navigated debris-strewn streets; inside homes, furniture and possessions lay ruined under mud and silt.
The disaster has drawn widespread criticism for the government’s slow and inadequate response. Many locals and relief workers say early warnings were ignored, evacuation plans were poorly executed, and relief resources reached affected populations too late.
As part of moving forward, authorities have tasked relevant agencies to improve drainage systems and infrastructure, particularly in flood-prone zones such as Hat Yai in Songkhla, to prevent future disasters. The Prime Minister visited Hat Yai again on November 30 to personally oversee those efforts.
This tragedy is a harsh reminder of human vulnerability in the face of climate extremes. Thousands are left homeless, grieving families struggle to cope, and under the weight of public anger and heartbreak, the government has at last accepted responsibility. The real test now lies in delivering on promises and rebuilding trust as southern Thailand attempts to rise from the ruins.