The Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) is making waves—or rather, aiming to manage them—by unveiling its ambitious water management plans for 22 river basins this year. With a mission to orchestrate the flow and utilization of precious water resources, Surasee Kittimonthon, the indefatigable secretary-general of ONWR, embodies the spirit of a modern Aquaman. Just last week, the agency marked a milestone with the completion of plans for the lower southern and Chi River basins, both formally enshrined in the Royal Gazette on February 6th.
Amidst the buzz in government corridors, a crucial meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong reached a consensus—to give the green light to additional plans for three vital river basins: Sakae Krang, Wang, and Nan. As Surasee informs us, the remaining 17 compelling water stories are on track to be completed, wrapping up the grand hydrological narrative within this calendar year.
The ambitious master plan, initially hatched in 2020, set a two-year horizon for all water management manifests. However, much like navigating a meandering stream, the best-laid plans can go slightly awry due to unforeseen snags like data collection hurdles and surveying slip-ups. Surasee elaborates that both primary and secondary sources need to be meticulously studied and analyzed before the cartographic conquests can proceed.
Yet, let’s not forget the rogue wave that was the Covid-19 pandemic from 2020 to 2022, which rudely disrupted fieldwork and community feedback forums, leaving a backlog akin to a dammed-up river. However, with the pandemic mercifully in the rearview mirror, the agency has paddled with renewed vigor, narrowing the gap to meet impending deadlines.
Water maps, according to Surasee, are akin to the treasure maps leading us towards a golden era of water resource management, charting the seasonal dance of H2O and coupling neatly with municipal development strategies to ensure no uninvited urban trespassers encroach upon the aquatic arteries.
Quoting Surasee, “The water plan will clearly define which areas are set aside for waterways, ensuring nothing obstructs the natural course of water flowing from peak to estuary.” An eloquent ode to unobstructed hydrodynamics. As they say, you can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf—ONWR is surely committed to making every crest count in Thailand’s quest for sustainable water management.
I think this plan is amazing! Finally, someone is taking water management seriously.
It’s just another political stunt. They won’t follow through like all the past promises.
Maybe, but at least they’re trying. That’s more than most!
I’m a farmer, and we’ve suffered from droughts for too long. This could be a game-changer if it actually happens.
The focus should be on sustainable agriculture practices too, not just water management.
True, but without water, sustainable practices are hard to implement.
And let’s not forget about how this impacts natural ecosystems!
We need more than plans—we need action! Too much talk, not enough doing.
These plans are a necessary first step. Action needs direction, and that’s what plans provide.
I hope these plans prioritize people over profits for once. Communities should benefit.
Policies often balance multiple interests, but you’re right, community welfare should be top.
Exactly, and transparency will be key in ensuring that balance.
As long as it doesn’t delay my commute! Bangkok floods are already unbearable.
Why does this matter when climate change could wash all this effort away?
Actually, smart water management is crucial for adapting to climate change impacts.
Utilizing technology for data collection could speed up these plans. Why isn’t ONWR using AI?
AI can’t replace human intuition and experience in such complex matters.
I’m concerned about water quality management. It’s often overlooked compared to quantity.
Good point. Without addressing pollution, this plan can’t succeed.
Integration with urban development is crucial. Otherwise, it’s all just words.
Agreed! The synergy between water management and urban planning could redefine our cities.
What about reforestation and watershed management? That’s key in catching rain.
Surasee sounds like a superhero, but even superheroes can’t control political agendas.
True, but strong leadership can still spark real change.
I just hope they actually consult locals instead of imposing top-down solutions.
So many times we’ve been ignored, but Surasee seems genuinely committed.
This is a step, but we should focus on reducing water waste everywhere.
Yes! Water conservation starts with us—simple measures can have big impacts.
Overhauling water infrastructure could cost millions. Where’s the money coming from?
That needs to be addressed urgently; transparent financing plans are crucial.
Tourism depends on beautiful, clean waterways. This plan better consider that!
Back in my day, nature took care of itself. Now, we mess everything up needing costly plans.