The Identity of Water-based Communities in Thailand

The identity of water-based community refers to the special characters of a community along a major river or canal. Known as water-based community, its uniqueness lies in its residents’ way of life which is closely related to water. This study covered communities located from the upstream to the mouth of the rivers. These communities feature their geographical, historical and ecological backgrounds as well as the culture of each ethnic group. Additionally, changes in water-based communities have resulted from such infrastructure development: dams, sluices, roads and railroads. As a result, the communities have been transformed into land-based settlements.