Flood Hit Phayao Faces Aid Controversy Over Miscommunication

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Yesterday, September 4, the flood-stricken communities of Ban Fang Min and Ban Mae Tam Muang Chum in Phayao province were severely impacted. Homes, roads, and temples in these areas were inundated with water, prompting a desperate need for immediate relief. Responding to the call, both individuals and local leaders spearheaded relief efforts to help those affected.

 

Chaos ensued when an individual, aiming to support the residents with 400 food and water packages, faced an unexpected hurdle. Upon arriving with 100 cooked meals and water, the local leaders refused the aid, citing a lack of prior coordination and the risk of food waste.

 

Phanu, the benefactor, voiced his dissatisfaction: “Yesterday, I travelled over 20 kilometres to deliver food to Ban Fang Min, but was told to take it elsewhere. The local leader mentioned they already had enough food for the day and suggested I distribute it myself if I wanted recognition.”

 

Consequently, the food and water supplies were redirected to Wat Muang Chum in the Mae Tam subdistrict. This forced the residents to navigate through floodwaters, travelling over 2 kilometres to collect the aid, adding to their already severe hardship.

 

 

 

 

Narong Namwong, the head of the Dok Kham Tai Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, addressed the situation, emphasising that the miscommunication was a result of the municipality's prior distribution efforts. He clarified, “The municipality had already provided food to the villagers. To avoid duplication, we advised the benefactor to direct the aid to Ban Mae Tam Muang Chum, which hadn't received any yet.”

 

He further explained that the Dok Kham Tai subdistrict Municipality and community leaders have been assisting the villagers for over two weeks, ensuring every household got aid. According to Narong, “We did not reject the donations; it was merely a communication issue. We have since coordinated with the benefactor to distribute the chicken rice meals again.”

 

As the floodwaters persist, the need for effective coordination and clear communication between benefactors and local authorities is paramount, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most without unnecessary complications.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-09-05

 

 

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