CHAIYAPHUM, Dec 25 (TNA) – Drought concerns prompt Thai
prime minister to inspect water management and conservation efforts in the
northeastern province of Chaiyaphum.
Following the lowest rainfall in decades during this year’s
rainy season, drought has hit 70 of Thailand’s 77 provinces. The Meteorological Department forecast severe
drought to last until May next year.
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha made an inspection trip to
a village in Mueang district of Chaiyaphum on Wednesday.
He visited irrigation canals and waterways where dredging
works were underway.
The premier praised the agencies in the northeastern
province for their integrated efforts in tackling drought.
Prayut also planted trees and soil covering plants with
villagers.
Provinces in the northeast are the most affected; some are
already in the grip of critical water shortages. Farmers are being asked to swap their crops
or delay plantings for the season while irrigation agencies speedup
Authorities have warned the worst period of drought will be
January and February, as water reserves fall and the situation worsens. (TNA)
