The inspection of emergency and disaster relief personnel in Phang Nga took place on Thursday (Oct 19) and was led by Rear Admiral Suchart Thampitakwet, Commander of the Royal Thai Navy Third Area Command (RTN NAC 3) and Director of the Third Area Command Disaster Relief Center. Rear Admiral Kanokphon Pimthong, Commander of the Phang Nga Naval Base, hosted the event.
"Various natural disasters tend to occur in the Andaman coast area, including floods, storms, mudslides, and more. In addition to threats from nature, emergencies arise from the use of marine transport and marine tourism. These incidents frequently affect people in the area, making it crucial that the Disaster Relief Center of the Third Area Command is ready to respond swiftly and provide assistance to people," RTN NAC 3 stated.
"The readiness of personnel, vehicles, equipment, and high-tech solutions is vital to ensure that the Royal Thai Navy can provide assistance to the main government agencies in disaster prevention and mitigation," the navy added.
The mass assembly in Phang Nga was attended by both military and civil rescue units, including personnel from the Royal Thai Navy and the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), as well as Phuket Kusoldharm Foundation and Phang Nga Rescue Services.
Over 500 rescue workers of various specialisations gathered to demonstrate their preparedness for the upcoming high season, according to Vincent Modell of Rescue Team Volunteers Phuket, the sole foreigner at the event.
Speaking at the event, Rear Admiral Suchart emphassed the importance of rescue workers carrying out their mission “vigorously, carefully, and with safety in mind.”
"We must be well-prepared to ensure people’s confidence in our work. Regardless of the type of disaster we encounter, we must do everything within our power. Our work is the people’s guarantee of their survival and the safety of their property. People should rest assured that we stand by their side, ready to serve and protect them. Where there is danger, the Navy will be there," Rear Admiral Suchart said.