Thailand Prepares Nine-Point Drought and Flood Management Plan
Thailand's government is rolling out a nine-point water management plan for 20 Northeast provinces to tackle both drought and flooding through water retention schemes and preventive measures. The plan faces obstacles including soil disposal
Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Tongsri revealed a water management plan for 20 provinces in Thailand's Northeast region, stating that nine measures will be brought before the cabinet for approval. All provinces are preparing preventive measures and relief capabilities based on lessons learned from previous water disasters, including establishing temporary shelters for residents and focusing on historically vulnerable flood zones. The government plans water retention schemes to address both flooding and drought in natural water basins.
Songsak explained that Thailand has 22 river basins, where flooding occurs when water exceeds basin capacity and drought occurs when supply falls short of demand. The solution involves managing both issues simultaneously—such as diverting excess water into reservoirs when forecasted. However, obstacles exist regarding excavated soil from water projects, which legally must be stored properly rather than distributed to residents, discouraging local agencies from pursuing projects. The Interior Ministry is revising regulations to allow excavated soil to be credited against dredging costs, accelerating project implementation.
Regarding high water levels in the Mekong River, Songsak acknowledged that upstream dams controlled by neighboring countries release water without prior coordination. He admitted that Thailand typically learns of water releases after they occur rather than receiving advance notice, and he noted that the Foreign Ministry must pursue better cooperation on this issue. On proposals to create a separate water ministry, Songsak stated this remains merely an idea, as current water management faces no structural obstacles requiring such reorganization.
