Prachuap Khiri Khan officials and stakeholders gathered this week to discuss sustainable approaches to water management, as the province looks to secure its future amid growing environmental and development pressures.
Held at the Prachuap Grand Hotel in Mueang District on 30 April, the event took place under the theme “Water is Life – Prachuap Must Move Forward”. It formed part of the province’s ongoing Water Festival initiative and brought together over 300 participants from across the public, private, and community sectors.
Governor Sitthichai Sawatsan chaired the forum, which aimed to encourage collaboration and gather input on how to manage the province’s water resources more effectively. Among those attending were Dr Bussakorn Sawatsan, President of the Prachuap Khiri Khan Red Cross Chapter, the Deputy Governors, heads of government agencies, representatives from local administrative bodies, village leaders, private sector participants and members of the public.
The forum was structured into two sessions. In the morning, panel discussions addressed four key topics: lessons learned from past water-related challenges in Prachuap, current management practices, the role of water in driving development, and planning for a sustainable future. Representatives from relevant government departments shared their perspectives during these sessions.
In the afternoon, three keynote speakers offered further insight into area-based and long-term approaches to water management. Dr Royol Chitradon discussed the role of water in the survival of cities and agriculture. Mr Paitoon Kengkarnchang, Deputy Secretary-General of the National Water Resources Office, outlined how national policies can be implemented at the local level. Dr Thanet Sombun from the Royal Irrigation Department addressed water management during both the dry and rainy seasons.
Governor Sitthichai described the forum as an important step in bringing together stakeholders to consider both immediate concerns and long-term planning.
“Water is not only essential for life, it is also fundamental to economic stability, social wellbeing, environmental protection and food security,” he said.
He added that, as a coastal province with varied geography and lifestyles, Prachuap Khiri Khan must develop a sustainable water management system that supports urban expansion, agricultural productivity, and the protection of natural resources.
“This forum is an opportunity to reflect on the past, assess our current situation, and plan for the future with input from all sectors. It is essential that we work together to create a water system that is both secure and adaptable to future challenges,” he said.
The forum concluded with a call for ongoing dialogue and collaboration to ensure the province is equipped to meet the demands of changing environmental conditions and population growth.