Accelerating the Reconstruction of Industrial Estates Affected by Floods in 2011

(15/02/2012)

Thailand places high priority on accelerating the reconstruction of industrial estates and logistics systems that were affected by severe floods in 2011. Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul, in his address at the Fourth Meeting of Delhi Dialogue in New Delhi on 13 February 2012, said that the world is facing new and common challenges that require innovative and collective responses. Last year, he said, Thailand was affected by one of the worst flooding catastrophes in its history. The Thai government has set up two strategic committees on national reconstruction and water management as part of anti-flood operations. He said that an integrated water management master plan, with USD11 billion set aside for a new and improved water and crisis management system, would ensure a safe and stable industrial base in Thailand contributing to uninterrupted ASEAN supply chains and transportation networks. The Government’s flood prevention measures sek to build new flood barriers to protect key economic areas and create floodways and floodplains to drain out water quickly. Moreover, early warning systems will be developed. Most importantly, a single command authority will be in place to manage the crisis.