Nirat Pongsitthavorn Appointed as New Director-General of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation

According to a report by Thai Post on August 25, 2026, Nirat Pongsitthavorn, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior and acting Director-General of the Department of Local Administration (DLA), has been appointed as the new Director-General of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM).

Nirat, often referred to by his nickname 'Sembe', stated that the appointment was unexpected. He expressed his respect for the decision made by Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, alongside the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior. He confirmed his readiness to assume the new role, though he acknowledged the logistical challenge of finalizing administrative tasks within the DLA before transitioning to his new position.

For residents and travelers in Thailand, this leadership change is significant as the DDPM plays a critical role in managing emergency responses, flood mitigation, and disaster relief efforts across the country. A change in leadership at this agency may influence how local disaster management policies are implemented in the coming months.

While the appointment has been announced, the specific timeline for the official handover and the subsequent appointment of a successor for his former role at the DLA remain to be confirmed by the Ministry of Interior.