Bangkok: The government has announced a new strategic initiative to tackle floods and droughts, titled "Know in advance - Prevent in advance," which includes the formation of five regional committees. This initiative aims to enhance preparedness and minimize damage to the public by leveraging a Risk Map that extends down to the village level.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, detailed the government's upgraded approach, which focuses on proactive risk assessment, prevention, and preparedness. This initiative is designed to protect lives, property, agricultural areas, and the economy. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has mandated the creation of five regional committees to oversee flood and drought prevention and mitigation across the North, Northeast, South, Central, and East regions. This strategy ensures collaboration among central government agencies, provincial and local authorities, and civilian and military sectors, aiming to streamline processes and enable swift public assistance.
The government's guiding principle, as stated by the spokesperson, is "Know Beforehand - Prevent Beforehand - Be Prepared." To achieve this, data and technology will be increasingly utilized, with the GISTDA and National Water Resources Office (NWRO) working alongside experts to develop detailed risk maps. These maps will help identify high-risk areas and prioritize the needs of specific population groups. "The objective is to utilize risk information proactively, ensuring that provinces and relevant agencies are aware of where to allocate resources and how to assist vulnerable groups," Ms. Rachada explained.
For the central region, Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has been tasked with driving the initiative due to its economic significance. The central region will act as a prototype for a comprehensive disaster response system, encompassing pre-disaster prevention, public care, recovery, and community engagement. This entails creating a Risk Map, monitoring cultivated areas and water levels, and developing a standardized checklist for readiness assessment across 17 provinces and Bangkok.
In addition, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province is designated as a model for drought management in agriculture, while Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province will focus on flood management. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, along with the NWRC and GISTDA, will compile plans, monitor data, and develop risk maps. A subcommittee will ensure effective implementation of these plans. "Preventing damage from natural disasters is a priority for the government. Through data, technology, and collaboration, we aim to minimize impacts on lives, homes, and livelihoods, extending successful strategies nationwide," Ms. Rachada emphasized.