(KPL) The National Disaster Management Committee, chaired by Gen. Chansamone Chanyalath, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the National Disaster Management Committee, held a meeting to evaluate the impacts, damages, and recovery plans for provinces affected by Typhoon Vipha. The meeting was attended by ministers, department heads, and relevant officials from various ministries. 

According to Mr. Vongkham Phanthanouvong, Head of the National Disaster Management Committee Secretariat under the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, Typhoon Vipha had affected a total of 34 districts, 262 villages, and nearly 15,000 households, with 2,249 houses damaged.

Among these, 183 houses were completely destroyed, four people lost their lives (one in Xieng Khuang and three in Luang Prabang), four remain missing in Huaphan, and six were injured. Nearly 2,000 hectares of farmland were damaged, along with one power station, five schools, 47 road sections, five bridges, two irrigation systems, 17 health facilities, among others.

Currently, detailed damage assessments are still being collected from the affected provinces, as floodwaters have not yet fully receded. Provincial and district disaster management committees are coordinating to gather data and estimate losses.

Regarding recovery efforts, provincial authorities are directing disaster management committees at all levels to monitor, prepare, and support villages in responding to the disaster. Provincial and district command centres have been established to coordinate disaster response, mobilize resources, and provide relief.

Additionally, district disaster committees are working with village authorities to provide initial assistance to affected families, including financial aid. Xieng Khuang Province has received 140 million kip in emergency relief funds, while 80 million kip has been allocated to the districts of Xieng Ngeun and Nan for monitoring and preparedness. Essential supplies have also been distributed to impacted areas.

Furthermore, provincial and district committees, in collaboration with village authorities, are working to rescue stranded individuals and recover the deceased. Some roads have been temporarily repaired to restore traffic flow. Disaster committees at all levels are coordinating with local authorities and communities to compile damage reports for higher-level review and recovery planning.

Recent reports indicate that affected provinces are requesting budget allocations, equipment, relief supplies, and medicines to support recovery efforts and help disaster-affected residents return to normalcy as soon as possible.

KPL