Suwat raps warning demo delay

PATONG: Deputy Prime Minister Suwat Liptapanlop yesterday rapped the Nonthaburi-based National Disaster Warning Center (NDWC) for a mix-up that resulted in a delay in a demonstration of tsunami sirens in Patong.

The Deputy PM, who was in Phuket to check on preparations for the December 26 tsunami anniversary, had asked for the demonstration.

“We are checking everything, especially the warning system [in Patong] and all the beaches will be ready by December 26,” he explained.

At the DPM’s request, an adviser to the warning center called the NWDC on his mobile phone to request a demonstration.

Nothing happened for 10 minutes.

An irritated K. Suwat wagged a finger at the adviser and told him, “If this kind of situation recurs, the public may not get a warning in time. The NDWC must find ways to respond faster.”