Transport safety stressed in stormy northern Thailand
The storm has weakened since moving in from Laos but has caused persistent heavy rain and flooding in some provinces in the North, according to the Meteorological Department. The key provinces affected are Nan, Chiang Rai and Phayao.
Mr Suriya said the Department of Highways has set up warning and detour signs on affected roads and stationed security staff for 24 hours at points prone to floods and landslides, with machinery on standby for emergencies.
The Department of Rural Roads was thoroughly inspecting roads and will alert the public to any damage through updates on its Flood Management System (FMS).
The State Railway of Thailand, meanwhile, is cleaning and improving drainage systems. Safety checks on tracks, trains, signals and barriers are under way, along with a review of emergency response plans and temporary shelters for passengers.
Chiang Mai Airport since Monday has opened a coordination centre with equipment and staff on hand in domestic passenger hall 1, according to Airports of Thailand. Airport staff are also holding daily situation assessment meetings at 9am. Parking for 250 vehicles is available for affected individuals.
Mae Fah Luang Airport in Chiang Rai is also allowing free parking for flood-affected residents until Thursday.
Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok remains unaffected, with normal flight operations.
Passengers planning flights from Thailand to heavily affected areas, such as Hong Kong, Macau and Shenzhen, are advised to continuously check their flight status.
In case of delays or cancellations, passengers are entitled to full refunds or flight changes, except for compensation due to unforeseeable external events, said the Civil Aviation Authority.
Passengers who will be arriving in Thailand can check situation updates via websites of airports where they will be landing. Measures are in place to ensure flight safety and air traffic management, according to Aeronautical Radio of Thailand.
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