Severe flooding across Bangkok since September 24 has prompted significant scrutiny of the Thai government’s response to natural disasters. The intense rainfall has inundated various parts of the capital, including Lat Krabang and Bang Kapi, submerging roads, homes, and vehicles. In response, officials have declared all 50 districts of Bangkok as disaster-affected areas, mobilizing emergency shelters, personnel, and equipment to assist the impacted communities.
Concerns have been raised by residents and experts about the government’s preparedness and the effectiveness of its warning systems. Critics have pointed out that the timing of emergency alerts may not have allowed sufficient time for residents in some areas to safeguard their belongings and evacuate before floodwaters rose.
The government’s efforts include deploying military personnel, emergency vehicles, and coordinating with transport authorities to provide assistance across road, rail, water, and air services. Drainage and pumping operations are ongoing as authorities attempt to reduce water levels in the affected areas.
This natural disaster coincides with a period of declining political support for Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and the Bhumjaithai Party. A NIDA Poll conducted before the flooding, from September 18 to 23, revealed that only 13.76% of respondents favored Anutin as their preferred prime minister, a drop from 21.68% in the previous quarter. Support for the Bhumjaithai Party also fell from 17% to 12.08% in the same period.
Although the poll does not measure public opinion on the government’s flood response, any shifts in sentiment are expected to be reflected in future surveys. For now, the primary focus remains on managing relief operations, efficient drainage, issuing timely public warnings, and supporting communities affected by the ongoing floods.