Severe flooding across Bangkok has heightened scrutiny of the Thai government’s disaster response capabilities, as residents and experts express concerns about the nation’s preparedness and early warning systems. Since September 24, heavy rains have inundated several areas of the capital, including Lat Krabang and Bang Kapi, submerging roads, homes, and vehicles. In response, authorities have declared all 50 districts of Bangkok as disaster-affected areas and have opened emergency shelters, deploying personnel and equipment to aid affected communities.
The government’s response, however, has drawn criticism, particularly regarding the timing of emergency warnings. Many have questioned whether residents in certain areas were given adequate time to relocate belongings and vehicles before floodwaters rose. To address the crisis, the government has mobilized military personnel and emergency vehicles, while transport authorities coordinate assistance across road, rail, water, and air services. Drainage and pumping operations continue as efforts to lower water levels in affected areas intensify.
This situation unfolds against a backdrop of declining political support for Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and his Bhumjaithai Party, as indicated by the latest NIDA Poll. Conducted from September 18 to 23, before the most severe flooding, the survey reveals a drop in Anutin’s popularity, with 13.76% of respondents naming him their preferred prime minister, down from 21.68% the previous quarter. Support for the Bhumjaithai Party also decreased, from 17% to 12.08%.
The timing of the survey is noteworthy, as it does not capture public opinion in response to the government’s handling of the floods, which could impact future polling results. For now, the primary focus remains on relief operations, maintaining effective drainage, issuing timely public warnings, and supporting the communities affected by the flooding in Bangkok.