Flood Rehabilitation Underway In Hat Yai

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Flood Rehabilitation Underway in Hat Yai

After heavy floods in Songkla's Hat Yai district last month caused massive damage to property, the environment, and the economy, rehabilitation is now underway, with both government and the private sector joining in the effort, in preparation for the upcoming New Year festival.

Although the popular Kim Yong market in Hat Yai district in the southern province of Songkhla was hit by heavy flooding last month, the atmosphere is now active.

After the flooding subsided, traders rushed to restore their damaged shops and were able to quickly resume business, since this not the first time they've had to face a bad situation.

Despite the incomplete repair of some shops, the necessity of making a living, and the continuous arrival of customers and tourists have forced traders to carry on with their business.

In the meantime, 90 percent of the hotel and tourism sector in Hat Yai district have resumed services.

The business sector there has asked the government to seek the Cabinet's approval to hold a meeting or conference in the district to boost tourism.

They've also called on the Finance Ministry to consider a soft loan for operators affected by the floods, to help revive business in Songkhla and other affected provinces.

Meanwhile, Hat Yai Mayor Prai Pattano disclosed that the municipality plans to broaden the King Rama 1 canal, build a surge barrier along the U-tapao canal, and set up a pressure system to enable water from canals to quickly flow into Songkhla Lake, to prevent flooding.

Both the government and private sectors in the district have worked together to revive the area in preparation for an influx of visitors during the upcoming New Year festival.

-- Tan Network 2010-12-02