Phuket MP from the People's Party raised questions about the landslide in Phuket, expressing doubts about the plans to organize and prevent such incidents long-term. Deputy Minister Worathit confirmed that a careful study of the drainage system is underway, as rapid urban growth has reduced drainage efficiency.
At 11:10 a.m. on 29 Oct 2026 GMT+7, a meeting was held at the House of Representatives chaired by Mr. Sophon Sarum, Speaker of the House. During the session, Mr. Chaloempong Sangdee, Phuket MP from the People's Party, questioned Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul about the flooding and landslide in Phuket. He acknowledged that natural disasters cannot be prevented but believed better preparedness could improve disaster response. He asked why, during the disaster declaration in Phuket, the governor was abroad, questioning if any mission was more important than this event. He also questioned why Patong lacked a landslide warning system. Citing budget constraints, he pointed out that Phuket ranks second in national revenue generation and expressed local frustration. He inquired about regulations requiring notification to local authorities under the Interior Ministry before mountain excavation or construction, and what actions would be taken against unlawful waterway diversions. Despite Phuket’s economic significance, residents live in fear—fleeing upslope only to face landslides, or downslope encountering tsunami waves. While the city grows, infrastructure and warning systems lag behind. He demanded clear answers on recovery, waterway management, and long-term prevention plans, asking if measures could be implemented within 30 days.
Ordered the Office of Insurance Commission to expedite damage compensation.
Deputy Minister of Interior Worathit Liangprasit responded on behalf of the Prime Minister, explaining that the incident in Phuket was a landslide and flash flood that overwhelmed existing systems. He noted it’s impossible to predict exactly when landslides will occur. Over the past two weeks, all southern provinces have been closely monitoring weather. The cause was heavy water flow from a damaged weir due to excessive accumulated rainfall, leading to water and soil rushing downstream. For immediate response, local authorities are diverting water along proper channels. The government is accelerating disaster aid under the national disaster insurance scheme, initially providing 10,000 baht per affected household and will assess further damages for additional support. Regarding the governor’s absence during the event, it was due to a pre-scheduled tourism policy meeting and the ITOP Island Travel Mart 2026 in South Korea, with prior notice given.
For long-term solutions: 1. Regarding drainage, the government is actively studying and redesigning systems since rapid urban growth has reduced drainage efficiency. 2. Regarding landslides, data does not cover all risk areas. Deputy Minister Jeset Thaiset, overseeing the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, has coordinated with the Ministries of Agriculture and Natural Resources to regulate risky zones and allocate the largest possible budgets. For aid, a center has been set up for claims, but to avoid confusion with new systems, the Office of Insurance Commission, insurers, and local officials are conducting door-to-door registration of affected residents. It is expected that within two days, all will be completed, ensuring the fastest possible compensation delivery.