Flood risk management in Thailand: Shifting from a passive to a progressive paradigm

This article examines the 2011 flood in Thailand, with an emphasis on the Chao Phraya River Basin, and analyzes the existing plans and measures relevant to the flood risk management of the country. It also highlights some deficiencies in current practices, and suggests improvements using a strategic flood risk management framework. The results indicate that the flood risk management of Thailand is ineffective and needs to shift from a passive response (that relies mainly on structural measures and emergency responses during a flood event) to a progressive response that emphasizes non-structural measures (e.g., land use planning, building and development controls, regulations, etc.) and participatory collaboration among government agencies and stakeholders (people, public, and private agencies in the affected areas). Further studies about flood insurance for the agricultural sector and about socioeconomic levels and perceptions in the flood risks of the target communities are also recommended. These can improve financial resilience to flood risk and the effectiveness of the relevant plan implementations.