The opinion piece lists five lessons based on the problems Thailand
faced, so that the situation is not repeated here or in other Asian
countries:
- The first lesson from this sad episode is that disasters happen
when we do not have enough resilience to absorb the impact of a hazard.
Hazards are exogenous but disasters are endogenous. Hence, while
flooding is a hazard, our inability to cope with the consequences of
floods contribute to a major disaster. - The second lesson is the need to incorporate a holistic perspective
in development planning . Land use, urban development, industrial
activities and water management must be coordinated. Geographers know
that specific terrain is suited for certain activities. Thus, land use
plans must be properly prepared and strictly enforced. - The third lesson is the urgent need for institutional reforms.
Neither the government nor public could say which institution was
ultimately responsible. Various authorities had different views on
flood management and took contradictory positions. Contradictory
statements came from different institutions, which confused the public.
There has to be a consistent and realistic strategy for the Thai
authorities to manage floods effectively and promptly. - The fourth lesson is that scientists have been working mostly on
theoretical problems, which have little relevance to reality.
Scientists have to get out of their air-conditioned offices, look at
the real problems and find implementable solutions. Real-life problems
cannot always be simulated on computer. Simulating models and
publishing research papers that have little relevance indicates a
failure from a societal and scientific perspective. - The final lesson is that as Thailand begins its rehabilitation
effort, it should not only include reconstruction of infrastructure but
also restoration of the trust and confidence of the people. We need to
continuously learn from mistakes and prepare for a better future. The
fact that Thailand had been able to ward off previous disasters was
primarily due to good fortune. The country may not be so fortunate next
time.
Read the full article "Floods in Asia: Lessons to be learned
from Thailand" here:
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/opinion/Floods-in-Asia-Lessons-to-be-learned-from-Thailand-30174413.html