He made the statement after a cabinet meeting at Government House today (January 7). This is part of the measures to deal with the drought situation gripping many provinces. 
“We have requested an emergency budget for drilling 500 artesian wells to tackle the drought situation and solve the problem of water shortage,” he said. 
“We will start drilling the wells immediately on receiving the money. The operation is expected to start tomorrow [January 8].” 
The operation is being carried out under cooperation between various agencies such as the Department of Water Resources, the Interior Ministry and the Army.

500 artesian wells to be drilled to tackle water shortage

Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwan said he has ordered authorities to drill 500 artesian wells to help people nationwide amid a drought.