The Management of Wastewater by Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Municipality, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

Abstract

   This study aimed to examine the wastewater situation, management measures and practices, as well as the problems and obstacles associated with wastewater management in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya City Municipality, and to propose effective management guidelines. A qualitative research approach was employed, utilizing documentary analysis and in-depth interviews with four groups of key informants: 1. municipal administrators, 2. personnel responsible for wastewater treatment systems, 3. representatives of the public sector, and 4. local academics. The research instrument included semi-structured interviews and content analysis was employed for data analysis.

   The findings revealed that wastewater in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya City Municipality primarily originates from households, commercial buildings, markets, restaurants, and hotels, many of which lack proper treatment in accordance with standards. The municipality currently employs  a combined sewer system that conveys wastewater to centralized treatment ponds, utilizing an oxidation ditch (OD) process. Key challenges in wastewater management include engineering limitations of the treatment system, urban planning constraints, legal issues, budget limitations, and insufficient participation from both the public and government sectors. The study proposes that effective wastewater management should focus on improving administrative management, enhancing participation from both public and governmental sectors, and developing integrated innovations to support sustainable wastewater management.