Government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub provided details of a significant budget for the southern provinces, both on the Andaman and Gulf coasts, ahead of the year’s first mobile Cabinet meeting today in Songkhla, reports the Bangkok Post.
He said the budget allocation of B302 million will be directed towards repairing flood-damaged infrastructure in Songkhla, Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat.
The government will also consider funding to send high school graduates to further their education at university, said Mr Jirayu.
In addition, plans for a development in Songkhla worth over B400mn will be discussed. This includes a five-year initiative to protect the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins in Songkhla Lake.
Ms Paetongtarn will visit the Sadao border checkpoint in Songkhla today at 3pm following the delay in opening the new checkpoint due to the need for a 300-metre connecting road.
Songkhla’s provincial administrative organisation (PAO) previously requested a budget of B28mn for its construction.
The proposal for an upgrade to the dual-track railway at Padang Besar station will also be reviewed.
As for the Land Bridge project, Mr Jirayu said that feasibility studies will be accelerated after the prime minister invited Chinese investors to participate in the project.
Ms Paetongtarn, along with her delegation, arrived in Phatthalung yesterday to meet locals and discuss water management issues.
The visit was warmly welcomed by residents, many of whom held up portraits of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and signs praising his contributions to the country.
Ms Paetongtarn emphasised that the government is committed to addressing issues across all regions and ensuring that development is not confined to specific areas.
She also spoke with local farmers and explored the potential for buffalo milk production, pledging support for efforts to expand the market.
“The government will also look into projects that help people address difficulties and generate more revenue in the South, allowing people to live comfortably,” she said.
“We will fully develop the South because our country will be stronger if people live well.”