The rhythmic sound of flowing water is one we often take for granted, yet it plays a crucial role in shaping our environment and lives. This year, the Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) is taking strides to ensure that the symphony of water flowing through Thailand’s 22 river basins hits just the right notes. Helmed by the diligent Secretary-General, Surasee Kittimonthon, this ambitious initiative is racing towards completion despite its share of twists and turns.
Already, two comprehensive water management plans have materialized for both the Lower Southern Basin and the Chi River Basin. The announcement of these plans in the Royal Gazette on February 6 marked a significant milestone. However, this is just the overture. Under the baton of Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, the ONWR committee has now greenlit additional blueprints for the Sakae Krang, Wang, and Nan River basins. A grand total of seventeen more await their moment in the spotlight before year’s end.
Cast your mind back to a plan seeded in 2020, a master vision that declared these projects should bear fruit within two years. Yet, as with any grand composition, there have been unforeseen variations and an unplanned tempo shift. The orchestration of data—from primary notes to secondary echoes—hit several flats due to the arduous process of surveying and gathering the necessary information. Picture delving into the detailed layers of physical terrain maps, analyzing land usage like a cartographer from yesteryear, decoding urban development trends, and assessing flood damage chronicles—all hindrances indeed.
Adding to the cacophony, the Covid-19 pandemic from 2020 to 2022 imposed its own staccato, halting fieldwork, thwarting public forums, and turning the once smooth sailing into a tempest. But much like a dedicated maestro, ONWR is determined to bridge the symphonic gap left by these delays. With the curtain of 2023 rising—the show must go on!
What’s the grand crescendo of all these efforts? Water maps, orchestrated like sheet music, serve to chart and conduct the nation’s water flow through both arid and lush seasons. These maps will synchronize with municipal development plans, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between urban expansion and waterways, lessening the discord of encroachment.
In Mr. Surasee’s own words, “The water plan will clearly define which areas are reserved for waterways, without any obstructions from upstream to downstream.” A resounding finale that promises not just orderly management, but a resilient and sustainable future for all of Thailand’s water resources. So next time you hear the murmur of water rolling over stones, remember it’s more than just a sound—it’s the heart of a nation, forever in motion.
I believe strategic water management is vital for any country, especially one with agricultural dependency like Thailand. Kudos to ONWR on this initiative.
Absolutely! It’s great for farmers, but let’s not forget the ecological aspect. Hope they consider biodiversity too.
Good point. Biodiversity plays a critical role in maintaining ecological balance. They need to ensure no harm to the habitats.
They better! We’ve seen projects like this destroy natural habitats before.
I just hope they finish it on time. Delays only mean more funding and wasted resources.
With all the delays from Covid-19, it seems like a miracle if they actually pull this off without more hiccups.
It’s more about adjusting and learning from the pandemic. Adaptation is key in unpredictable situations like this.
True, but can institutions really adapt that quickly? Bureaucracy often slows things down.
What bothers me is the lack of public involvement in these plans. Aren’t we supposed to have a say about our environment?
They hosted forums, but turnout wasn’t great. Maybe people just aren’t interested or aware.
Or maybe they made it inconvenient for people to participate. There’s always more to the story.
If it means less flooding, I’m all for it! But where will the displaced communities go?
That’s the question, isn’t it? Development is fine, but not at the cost of people’s homes.
They promised relocation plans, but follow-up is crucial. Once the spotlight fades, so might the support.
I’ve seen it happen before. Let’s hope this time they stick to their words.
The way they’re treating water as a symphony is poetic, but it’s also a grim reminder of how human interference has muddled natural flows.
Exactly. We over-romanticize, forgetting the damage done. What’s the point of beauty without health?
True, but there’s a balance to be struck. Responsible management can complement natural flows.
Balance is key if they can find it. It requires constant assessment and adaptation.
Urban development must align with these water plans. Too often we build without considering the water implications.
You’re right. It’s like we’re forcing nature to bend to our will and then expect no repercussions.
The initiative sounds good on paper, but how realistic is it? Developing countries often struggle to implement complex projects like this.
Blueprints are great but execution is everything. Too many grand plans fail in practice.
As long as the rivers run clean and communities benefit, I’m rooting for them. Clean water is a basic right.
Resilience is built over time. We need consistency in policy not just ambitious projects kicking off every few years.
It’s not just about starting projects, but maintaining them too. Long-term vision is crucial.