HAT YAI – Police in Hat Yai, Songkhla, have issued a public apology for employing a small excavator to move approximately ten vehicles that were obstructing roads during critical flood relief operations, acknowledging responsibility for any resulting damage. The unusual measure was deemed necessary to clear vital pathways for emergency services and restore traffic flow in the aftermath of severe flooding that has inundated the city.

Flood Death Toll Climbs to 162 in Southern Thailand as Relief Operations Accelerate

Since November 27, 2025, residents had been urged to relocate their vehicles to ease congestion. Despite the warnings, numerous cars remained abandoned or had been swept into obstructive positions on roads and bridges. By November 29, police encountered severe traffic bottlenecks at crucial points such as the Rong Poon intersection and near the Khlong U-Tapao Bridge, significantly impeding the movement of ambulances and rescue teams.

Faced with the urgent need to open access, traffic police enlisted the help of a passing excavator operator to gently nudge the stranded vehicles short distances aside, rather than relocating them entirely. Authorities stressed that the action was taken solely to facilitate emergency access and was not intended as a punitive measure.

Police have apologised for needing to use a small backhoe to push a dozen flood-damaged cars out of the way at an intersection in Hat Yai, Songkhla, to clear a path for emergency vehicles and to ease traffic congestion after the disastrous flooding.

Read more:… pic.twitter.com/TW90JqUFlO

— Thai PBS World (@ThaiPBSWorld) November 30, 2025

In their statement, Hat Yai police confirmed they would compensate owners for any damage incurred during the operation. Moving forward, vehicles left unmoved by their owners during similar emergencies may be relocated to designated parking areas, including the Hat Yai Municipal Stadium and the Prince of Songkla University International Convention Center. Residents have been encouraged to contact local authorities for further assistance or information.

Anutin Apologises for Hat Yai Flood Management

The incident underscores the persistent challenges of managing urban traffic during natural disasters and ensuring unimpeded access for life-saving emergency services. Officials have reiterated calls for public cooperation, urging residents to proactively move their vehicles in future crises to prevent similar disruptions.

-Thailand News (TN)