"Deputy Minister of Defence" Visits Surin Province to Promote "Running Water, Electricity, Good Roads, and Mobile Phone Signal" Project, Enhancing Border Personnel's Capabilities

Today (5 Feb), Lieutenant General Adul Boonthamcharoen, Deputy Minister of Defence, and the AIS delegation visited Phanom Dong Rak District, Surin Province, to follow up on and promote the "Running Water, Electricity, Good Roads, and Mobile Phone Signal" project, a key policy of the Ministry of Defence to upgrade infrastructure and enhance the capabilities of border personnel in carrying out their missions.

During this visit, the Deputy Minister of Defence and the delegation distributed AIS SIM cards to support communication for the military personnel. Within the area of responsibility of the Suranaree Task Force, 2nd Army Area (2nd AR), to enhance communication, coordination, and command in border operations, Major General Somphop Pharawech, Commander of the Suranaree Task Force, accepted the handover on behalf of the area. Mr. Wisarut Phisal, Head of Regional Operations, Northeast Region, AIS, also participated in the mission and provided support in the area.

Photo: Weeraphat Ratsameerueangrong via SAP NEWS

At the first location, the Deputy Minister of Defence and his delegation visited the home of Mr. Sutin Sukhsriden, a civilian affected by the clashes, and presented him with morale-boosting gifts. He also inspected the operations of units in the area, including Point 2, Prasat Ta Kwai, Phanom Dong Rak District, Surin Province; Point 3, Hill 206 and Hill 350, Phanom Dong Rak District, Surin Province; and Point 4, Prasat Ta Muen Thom, Phanom Dong Rak District, Surin Province.

Regarding the water, electricity, roads, and telephone signal projects, Lieutenant General Adul mentioned that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul (also Minister of Interior) and General Natthaphol Nakpanich (Minister of Defence) had instructed him to oversee and improve the quality of life for troops stationed on the border. He emphasized that these troops work with great dedication, and living in border areas requires a certain level of quality of life. Essential needs include roads to facilitate the deployment of additional troops and equipment to the area, as well as the evacuation of the wounded from combat. Once the roads are completed, electricity will be introduced, which is crucial for enhancing the combat readiness of the armed forces. Next, telephone signals are necessary, as modern equipment is capable of transmitting images. Water is also essential for survival. Going forward, if sufficient budget is available, it will be possible to construct small ponds or dams, using water from consumption as barriers. All of this is development to strengthen security along Thailand's border.

Photo: Weeraphat Ratsameerueangrong via SAP NEWS

When asked about visiting people affected by the clashes, Lt. Gen. Adul said that regarding the second round of compensation, the Prime Minister had emphasized the need at the last Cabinet meeting. However, it's important to understand that this is a caretaker government, and budget expenditures don't simply go through Cabinet approval. Consultation with the Election Commission (EC) is also required, which may cause delays. After the election and the formation of a new government, he believes the EC will approve the Cabinet's resolution regarding compensation for the affected people, including tools for earning a living and housing. Compensation for those sheltered has already been paid.