FLOOD MANAGEMENT OF THE LOCAL ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATIONS IN PHETCHABURI, THAILAND

Abstract

This study sought to investigate the processes of flood management and the practices of flood management of the local administrative organizations in Phetchaburi, Thailand. It was carried out through qualitative research, specifically a case study approach. Forty-three informants from the local administrative organizations, namely Phetchaburi Municipality and Ton Mamuang Sub-district Administrative Organization, were involved. The data was collected through in-depth interviews and was analyzed through content analysis. The results showed that the pre-flood management process of this local administrative organizations included formulating disaster prevention and mitigation plans to develop risk prevention strategies, preparing disaster resources, personnel, evacuation plans, early warning systems, establishing temporary shelters, conducting pre-flood disaster drills and mitigation, and promoting risk reduction. Additionally, the during-flood management process involved establishing the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Division within local administrative organizations to assess the situations, supporting the Division, as well as monitoring, analyzing and reporting on the situation. Meanwhile, the post-flood management process encompassed restoration, reconstruction, rehabilitation of public utilities, and assessment and restoration of the living conditions of affected communities to normal. From this study, the practices of flood management comprised seven steps as follows: understanding the current situation, the need for risk assessment, and drawing upon historical data; assessing flood disasters; assessing exposure to flood disasters; analyzing vulnerability and capacity for flood management; analyzing impacts and risk levels of flood disasters; developing risk data and guidelines for management and reduction of flood risks; and formulating or improving strategies and action plans for mitigation of flood risks.