Thai Government Initiates Risk Mapping for Central Thailand to Combat Floods and Droughts

According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand on August 10, 2026, the Thai government has launched a new initiative to address flood and drought risks in Central Thailand. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Ekniti Nitithanprapas, serving as the chair of the committee for flood and drought prevention, announced the formation of five regional committees to centralize disaster management and improve response times.

Central Thailand is a critical focus area due to its low-lying geography, which acts as a drainage path for water flowing from the north toward the sea. The region also serves as a vital hub for agriculture, industry, and tourism. To mitigate potential impacts, authorities have been instructed to develop a 'Risk Map' for 17 provinces and Bangkok. This project integrates data from multiple agencies, including GISTDA, the Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR), the Thai Meteorological Department, the Royal Irrigation Department, and the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM).

For residents and travelers, this initiative aims to provide more reliable water management and disaster warnings. While the government is prioritizing the protection of economic and residential zones, the specific timeline for the completion of these risk maps and the exact operational protocols for the new regional committees remain to be confirmed.