Department of Irrigation Collaborated to advance knowledge in water management, exchanging expertise to prepare for future water crises and disasters.
On 22 May 2026, the Department of Irrigation, in partnership with the Thai Hydrological Society, the Office of National Water Resources, and the Royal Patronage Irrigation Engineering Alumni Association, organized an academic seminar titled "Approaches to Handling Water Crises and Disasters: Floods, Droughts, Water for Energy, and Water for Ecosystems in 2026–2027." The event was held at the Mahanatee Conference Room, Office of National Water Resources.
The seminar was chaired by Mr. Sanchai Ketworachai, President of the Thai Hydrological Society, with Dr. Thanet Somboon, Director of the Water Management and Hydrology Division, representing the Department of Irrigation. Experts and specialists participated as speakers to exchange knowledge and help define national water management strategies aligned with climate change and global volatility in the future.
This seminar aimed to integrate knowledge, ideas, and experiences from water resource and disaster experts to prepare for multidimensional water challenges, including floods, droughts, water management for energy production, and ecosystem balance. It also sought to strengthen water management strategies at policy, basin, and operational levels to effectively respond to rapidly changing conditions.
The seminar was divided into three key sessions: the first on "Water Crisis Trends," focusing on forecasting water scenarios and relevant technology applications; the second on "Managing Crises and Disasters," covering management by government agencies and basin-level water governance; and the final session on "Policy-Level Crisis and Disaster Management," reflecting perspectives on national policy, economics, and stakeholder participation.
Esteemed experts and specialists from various agencies shared valuable knowledge and experiences to support the long-term development of the country's water management system. This effort aims to enhance water resource management efficiency, reduce the impacts of water crises and disasters, and ensure sustainable water security for the people.