In a relentless deluge, the southern province of Pattani finds itself grappling with unprecedented flooding as the Pattani and Sai Buri rivers breach their banks, inundating the provincial capital and disrupting vital economic hubs. Nong Chik Road, a crucial thoroughfare adorned with hotels and department stores, now lies submerged, presenting a formidable challenge with water levels surging beyond 50 centimeters.
Efforts to curb the crisis are underway, marked by the deployment of 66 water pumps aimed at draining the floodwaters. Despite these measures, the situation remains precarious, with a continuous influx of water exacerbating the plight. Local residents are echoing concerns, deeming this the most severe flooding along the Sai Buri River in nearly half a century, as torrents flow from Narathiwat towards Pattani.
The gravity of the situation is underscored by authorities’ warnings regarding the perilous strong currents, particularly for children. Six communities within the capital district have borne the brunt of the floods, impacting 1,767 households and displacing 6,603 residents.
Pattani, alongside neighboring provinces Narathiwat and Yala, stands among the worst-hit areas in the region. According to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, a staggering 93,220 families across 25 districts are grappling with the aftermath. In Narathiwat, the toll is grim, with seven reported fatalities and one individual still missing. Even as the floodwaters recede, the region is immersed in ongoing rescue and relief operations, addressing the profound implications of this natural disaster.
Amid these challenges, regional leaders and officials have been working diligently to coordinate responses, drawing on the expertise of various agencies. The unified efforts aim not only to alleviate the immediate impact but also to formulate long-term strategies for mitigating the recurrence of such catastrophic events.
As the communities rally against the aftermath of nature’s onslaught, the indomitable spirit of resilience prevails. The road to recovery remains arduous, but collective determination stands as a testament to the unwavering resolve of the people in the face of adversity.
