Bangkok flood relief funding dispute

Discussions are underway between the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) regarding a 200 million baht contribution for flood relief. Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has dismissed claims that relief funds are exhausted or that the Ministry of Interior is prematurely forcing the BMA to pay, labeling such reports as “politically motivated misinformation.” He asserted that central budget funds are available to ensure assistance for all eligible citizens.

Concurrently, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt clarified the status of the city’s emergency budget, noting that only 28 million baht remains of an initial 400 million baht allocation. The BMA has already spent 372 million baht on relief supplies and citizen remediation. While the Governor stated that the administration has the authority to reallocate funds from other categories if necessary, he cautioned that doing so would impact future needs.

To resolve rumors of political tension, Governor Chadchart confirmed the BMA has contributed a total of 310 million baht to relief efforts. To address a request for an additional 300 million baht, the BMA provided 100 million baht in immediate funds, while the remaining 200 million baht will be settled by offsetting debts owed to the BMA by the central government, specifically regarding land and building tax compensations. Both officials emphasized that there is no conflict between the BMA and the central government, as both aim to ensure rapid aid for citizens.