As the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits roll out their red carpets in Vientiane, Laos, a discerning eye is cast upon the National Convention Centre’s sweeping architecture. Amidst the diplomatic discussions and regional tête-à-têtes, a pressing issue rises with the tides—flooding. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has highlighted this very concern, with the northern region of the country grappling with deluges of biblical proportions.
The ASEAN gathering from October 8th to 11th is not just a symposium of economic cooperation, investment agendas, and regional stability, but also a platform to address natural calamities that know no borders. Laos, an ever-graceful host, opens its arms to discourse on floods, following the Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa’s initiative of rallying Myanmar’s cooperation on this watery dilemma.
Amidst this geopolitical discourse, Chiang Mai finds itself submerged in more than just discussions. The city’s engulfed streets have prompted queries about urban planning and reform—a necessity laid bare by nature’s wrath. The Prime Minister has assured a comprehensive plan for long-term water management, stressing the consistent governmental commitment to such initiatives, despite potentially decade-long fruition periods.
While the embattled northern communities brave floodwaters, central regions remain vigilant, reassured by the Royal Irrigation Department’s assertions of robust water retention capabilities. Ms. Paetongtarn allays fears by pointing out that while rainy days lie ahead, central floods won’t replicate the northern ordeal.
Simultaneously, City Hall in Bangkok cautioned riverside inhabitants along the Chao Phraya River to brace themselves for potential flooding next week. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) predicted high tides and upstream water releases from the Chao Phraya Dam in Chai Nat, which may rise the river’s levels between October 14th to 23rd. Residents in areas without permanent barriers are being urged to secure belongings and keep an eye on water levels.
While delineations of the city’s vulnerable regions weren’t specifically announced, prior data from 2022 suggests that districts such as Dusit, Phra Nakhon, Samphanthawong, Bang Kholaem, Yanawa, Bangkok Noi, and Klong San might be under Neptune’s watch. As BMA spokesman Aekvarunyoo Amrapala pointed out, a confluence of thunderous downpours from the northern, northeastern, and central regions pour into the Chao Phraya, traditionally tranquil but capricious in temperament.
In the picturesque province of Chiang Mai, the swollen Ping River—a tributary swelling with monsoon rains—drains its pathos into the landscapes below. The Ping’s confluence with geographic siblings, forming the Chao Phraya in Nakhon Sawan, promises to test, yet again, the resilience of this city’s spirit.
As the ASEAN Summit discussions unfold, the blend of diplomacy, emergency preparedness, and environmental stewardship weaves its way through Vientiane, painting a picture of regional harmony and relentless resolve in the face of the elements. And while Vientiane wears the mantle of summit host with quiet dignity, the call to action resonates far beyond its quiet streets, echoing across the verdant expanses of Southeast Asia.
ASEAN always seems to talk a lot about these issues but do they ever really solve anything? Flooding’s only getting worse every year.
Talking is the first step! It’s not like these problems are easy to solve overnight.
I get that, but I’m tired of hearing the same promises with no action. It’s about time we see some real results.
You’d think with all the technology and resources, they could manage floods better by now.
Technology can’t stop nature. Implementing these solutions takes time and cooperation.
It’s ironic that city planning only comes into focus after disasters strike. Chiang Mai could have been better prepared.
City planning does take disasters into account, but these are unprecedented times with climate change.
Sure, but climate change isn’t new. Authorities should anticipate these impacts more efficiently.
I’m worried about the people along the Chao Phraya River. They shouldn’t have to live in constant fear of flooding.
Why does ASEAN bother with summits if the member states are still failing at such basic protections?
Diplomacy is complex. The summits are critical for fostering cooperation on these shared issues.
Fostering cooperation is one thing, but tangible changes are overdue.
Flood management has historical roots in the region. Lessons from history could guide us today.
Completely agree. Historical adaptation techniques could be revisited and adapted for modern use.
History is great and all, but modern problems require modern solutions, not old methods.
People tend to panic more than necessary. We’ve managed these situations before and will do so again.
I feel like this summit could be a turning point if only leaders commit to actual collaboration.
Laos is doing an amazing job hosting this event and raising awareness on such a critical issue!
Every ASEAN host would naturally capitalize on showcasing their own agendas, nothing new.
Long-term plans are great, but what are they doing to help the communities right now?
I hope the world sees how resilient these communities really are despite the hardships they face.
Resilience shouldn’t be used as an excuse for inaction from the authorities.
Why isn’t there more focus on sustainable urban design across ASEAN nations? It’s all about prevention.
Education on sustainable practices can help. Teaching younger generations could lead to better decision-making in the future.
True, but are current leaders even listening? They seem stuck in old ways.
We need more international collaborations for infrastructure projects to prevent floods.
Global infrastructure efforts can be tricky with varying regulations and priorities.
Yes, but it’s nothing that can’t be overcome with real commitment and leadership.
Flooding highlights our disconnection from natural systems. Perhaps we need to rethink our relationship with nature.