A steering committee led by Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong has recently approved additional blueprints for the Sakae Krang, Wang, and Nan river basins. With 17 more basins eagerly awaiting attention, the ONWR is on an ambitious mission to have these plans settled by the year’s end. Born from a master scheme in 2020, this initiative was initially slated to conclude within two years. However, the journey has been anything but smooth, encountering significant roadblocks, especially in gathering both primary and secondary data. The project’s success hinges on thorough data analysis and detailed regional surveys. Key focus areas include assessing physical conditions, land utilization, urban development, infrastructure systems, and examining historical flood damages.
The endeavor faced substantial setbacks due to the pandemic between 2020 and 2022, which hampered essential fieldwork and constrained public consultations. Bouncing back from these hurdles, ONWR is now in turbo mode, determined to stay as close to its original timeline as possible, as reported by the Bangkok Post.
Surasee highlighted that these upcoming water plans are poised to revolutionize water flow management throughout Thailand, whether during drought or deluge. They are designed to mesh effortlessly with urban development plans, aiming to prevent any encroachment on invaluable waterways. “The water plan will clearly outline areas preserved for waterways, ensuring no hindrance from upstream to downstream,” Surasee remarked, emphasizing the vital need to establish clear boundaries to protect these essential resources.
Alongside this grand endeavor, snippets of Thailand’s latest news continue to pop up, from unexpected vehicle mishaps in Phuket’s Seahorse Circle to apprehensive escapes of teenage fugitives in sugarcane fields. Gruesome chronicles like the tragic sword attack in Udon Thani and impending smog warnings for 53 provinces paint the compelling tapestry of Thai life.
Moreover, even as ex-alcohol executives are toasting potential economic benefits from relaxed liquor regulations, Bangkok bears witness to accidents like students being injured in traffic flurries. Simultaneously, throngs of Chinese tourists flood the region, boosting the burgeoning tourism sector.
Pattya, often at the center of the whirlwind, saw its share of chaos from condo raids busting South Korean drug smugglers to peculiar Microsoft pillow-like sightings in its sky. Meanwhile, travel enthusiasts seek serene escapes along Thung Wua Laen Beach in Chumphon, and cultural connections strengthen as Iran looks to tighten tourism bonds with Thailand.
Turning back to ONWR’s formidable water framework, the grandeur of this plan not only envisions streamlined water management but also promises a future where Thailand’s precious waterways are untangled from any obstructions or threats. As the nation anticipates the unveiling of this visionary blueprint, the prospects of a sustainably managed water resource landscape hang promisingly on the horizon.
This is a crucial step forward for Thailand! Water management is often overlooked but so essential, especially in these regions prone to floods or droughts.
Absolutely! But I fear the plans may neglect ecological aspects. Are they ensuring wildlife is considered in these plans?
Surasee did mention boundaries to protect waterways, so I hope ecological factors are part of their consideration!
Perhaps they need more transparency on that aspect. Public consultations must include environmental bodies more actively.
These ambitious plans sound good on paper but given past delays, how realistic is it to expect completion by the end of the year?
Skepticism is valid. The pandemic did set them back quite significantly, but it seems like they are pushing forward vigorously now.
No project ever completes in time, remember that! Unforeseen challenges will always pop up but progress is progress!
Imagine if other countries took such proactive approaches! Thailand is ahead of the curve on this issue.
Let’s not ignore the elephant in the room: corruption. Hope these plans don’t become another gravy train for those in power.
Chris, that’s a harsh take! ONWR seems determined to achieve something significant here. We should support them!
Olivia, optimism is great, but keeping an eye on corruption ensures resources go where they are needed, and not into back pockets.
Fair point, but maybe public oversight and media coverage will help maintain accountability.
Predicting a boost to tourism with safer, efficiently managed water resources—isn’t that an exciting prospect?
Absolutely! Flood-free roads during monsoon season can attract more tourists. It’s a win-win for economics and ecology.
With all the ongoing local issues, I’m surprised they’ve stayed on task with this plan at all!
Keep an eye on those teenagers escaping into sugarcane fields. If they can escape the cops, they can escape from responsibilities too…
Larry, those teens need guidance, not just punitive measures. A robust support system is lacking.
How’s anyone sure the groundbreaking plans aren’t just paper-tigers? Implementation is tricky.
Incredible that a single organization is tackling this, but why aren’t more international bodies involved?
Great point, McCoy! International support could amplify expertise and resources.
17 more basins by year-end? Seems like a pipe dream, given the history of such initiatives.
Man, we have to dare to dream big! Isn’t it better to aim high than settle for mediocrity?
True but without viable steps, dreams don’t transform into reality. It needs practicality.
Has anyone considered the historical significance of these river basins in Thai culture? They can’t erase that!
Definitely! River basins are cultural linchpins and their preservation is absolutely critical beyond just utility.
Also, don’t forget about the air quality. Smog issues are just as urgent!