Thai Hospital Reopens After Border Clashes

SURIN, Aug 15 (TNA) – Phanom Dong Rak Hospital in Surin province reopened on Thursday, over 20 days after a border clash between Thailand and Cambodia forced its closure.

The hospital, which was directly impacted by the fighting, is resuming operations at approximately 50% capacity, offering emergency services, general care, and prescription refills for chronic patients. Full services are expected to resume on Monday, August 18.

The hospital’s director Worawan Korporakit-ngam guided reporters through the damage, noting that three BM-21 rockets struck the facility on July 24, the first day of the conflict. One round hit the roof of the psychiatric and substance abuse building, causing significant damage. The attack was described as a serious violation of international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions.

Beyond structural damage, which includes staff housing hit by shrapnel, the hospital’s main challenge is the psychological impact on its employees. Over 100 staff members spent five hours in a bunker during the initial attack, listening to the explosions. The director reported that 51 staff members suffered severe anxiety, with some requiring medication.

While the hospital was closed, a parallel service unit was set up at a local health promotion hospital. For over 100 bedridden patients, medical teams provided care at their homes. Additionally, a new, large bunker is being constructed with a budget of 2 million baht from a private foundation, staffed by local volunteers. The bunker is designed to accommodate 250 people.

The conflict has also had a significant psychological effect on the local population, with an estimated 8,000 residents experiencing mental distress. More than 200 people are currently on medication to manage their anxiety. – 819 (TNA)