Developing a strategic flood risk management framework for Bangkok, Thailand

Abstract

This study explains deficiencies in Bangkok’s current floodplain management and demonstrates improvements that are possible using a strategic flood risk management framework. The flood that occurred in 2001 in Bangkok is described with the aim of highlighting the deficiencies of the metropolis’ flood management. A preliminary assessment of flood risks was conducted in each of 50 districts of Bangkok. The flood risk estimation over a 12-year period (1999–2009 and 2011) revealed that 10, 3, 6, and 31 districts of the metropolis were categorized as areas with very high (>30 %), high (>20–30 %), moderate (10–20 %), and low (<10 %) flood risks, respectively. This assessment provides quantitative insight, to compliment the observations made in the 2011 flood, and highlights the motivation behind Bangkok’s current flood management practice. The major findings obtained are as follows. First, the existing flood risk management practices for Bangkok are inefficient and need improvement. Second, the districts having different flood risks reflect the land values and the current flood protection procedures. Third, community participation in processes under the flood risk management framework is important to eliminate conflicts and garner public support and acceptance. Fourth, land use planning and development controls should be integrated with floodplain management plans to properly manage future flood risk. Fifth, a further study should be conducted to determine the uncertainties of future flood risks related to future development expansion and land values across Bangkok.