His Majesty the King wants the 12 young footballers and their coach, stranded in Tham Luang cave since June 23, to be brought out as soon possible, Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon said today.
The 13 have been found safe in the cave but it remains challenging how to bring them out. They are currently being accompanied at a spot in the cave about 400 metres from the so-called Pattaya Beach by Navy Seal members and a medical team.
Gen Prawit said the 13 cannot yet be moved out of the cave because of the strong currents in the narrow passages, adding that evacuating them will require a large number of people and equipment.
An option has been raised for the children to undergo a crash course on diving and swimming, he added.
“His Majesty the King said he wants the children to be brought out as soon as possible. If the water recedes and the currents is not strong, we may be able to bring them out. Don’t worry. All concerned are doing their best, especially the Navy Seal,” he said.
The deputy prime minister said the King also wants all parties taking part in the search and rescue operation, including foreigners, to be taken care of.
“For the foreigners who have helped in the search, we will take care of them. We will take them for a tour of Thailand and provide convenience for their safe return home,” Gen Prawit added.
Gen Surasak Karnjanarat, the natural resources and environment minister, said the rehabilitation of Tham Luang cave will be made in steps.
“I think the rehabilitation plan will be drawn up in a few days and we expect to see cooperation between many government agencies including the National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Now we would like to concentrate on bringing the stranded kids out,” he said.
