Two Bhumjaithai MPs debated water issues, concluding the day 2 budget debate for fiscal year 2570. They hoped citizens would have broad access to tap water and expressed encouragement for the "Anutin government" to lead the country boldly. The chair recently ordered the meeting to be adjourned.
At 22:34 on 30 June 2026 GMT+7 Mr. Visath Traisornkul, MP for Sisaket from the Bhumjaithai Party participated in the first reading debate of the draft Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2570 on day 2. He noted the government's careful budget planning, strict fiscal discipline, straightforward and transparent budgeting. He then addressed water management and irrigation budgets, which were previously concentrated in the Central region, but the 2570 draft budget expands irrigation projects into the North and Northeast, improving farmers' quality of life, increasing water storage, and reducing flood impacts. The Prime Minister and Cabinet presented these commitments to the House and the public in budget figures. He thanked and encouraged the Prime Minister and Cabinet for leading the country courageously.
At 22:41, the debate continued with Ms. Surie Thammat, MP for Surin from the Bhumjaithai Party, discussing water source development and tap water issues. She emphasized that water investment is necessary and important but felt the budget favored construction over maintenance. The regional tap water system serves 22% of all households nationwide, while most rural people rely on village tap water. One problem is that projects are handed over without readiness for maintenance. Another critical issue is water quality; many village tap water systems fail standards due to limited budgets and lack of regular inspections. Consequently, people face having water but are reluctant to use it and must buy drinking and usage water separately.
She stressed that maintenance receives too little budget compared to construction. While she agreed with the government’s promotion of clean energy—using solar cells in water systems—without skilled personnel, this technology would not be a good use of taxpayers' money. She concluded by urging equitable tap water distribution to reduce disparities and ensure continuous access to clean water.
After Ms. Surie's speech as the final speaker, Ms. Mallika Jirapanwanich, the First Deputy Speaker of the House acting as chair, adjourned the session at 22:49. The meeting will resume at 09:00 on 1 July 2026 GMT+7.
