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Tourism Operators Call for Long-Term Flood Management Plan

Tourism Operators Call for Long-Term Flood Management Plan

Regional tourism operators are advocating for a long-term flood management plan to address the impact of floods and storms on tourism and the economy, particularly in light of the recent floods in northern provinces and a deadly landslide in Phuket.

Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, president of the Phuket Tourist Association, expressed that the recent landslide and heavy rainfall, which resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals, including at least two Russian tourists, has alarmed tourism operators in Phuket. He emphasized that this tragedy should prompt the government to quickly develop long-term infrastructure plans for the island.

These plans should include measures to prohibit construction that elevates buildings beyond a certain height above sea level or reduces setback distances for taller buildings.

Pariyakon Phungmalai, vice-president of the Tourism Council of Chiang Rai, noted that although water levels are starting to recede in some areas, the floods have negatively affected the province’s overall tourism industry. She pointed out that the floods, which impacted 10 provincial districts, were among the most severe experienced in years due to heavy rainfall.

Chiang Rai is known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage, with numerous attractions such as farms, temples, parks, and homestays located outside the city. Ms. Pariyakorn explained that deforestation and slash-and-burn agricultural practices have left the province more susceptible to flooding, as there aren’t enough large trees to absorb and impede floodwaters.

She urged the government to address this issue by completely revamping water management for the region.

Kalyakamon Soongswang, a member of the Tourism Council of Nan, reported that local authorities and tourism operators in Nan have started a major cleanup operation following flash floods that occurred last week. As the managing director of Wiang Kaew Hotel, she shared that many hotels have had to cancel or postpone reservations due to disrupted transportation in the city.

She also called on the government to prioritize the initiation of a water management project to prevent reoccurrences of severe flooding, which hasn’t been seen since 2011.

Wiwat Tharawiwat, president of the Tourism Council of Sukhothai, stated that hotels in the city and historical parks remain safe from flood surges. However, some tourists have chosen to cancel their trips despite the fact that most affected areas are located in suburban districts.

In response to this situation, Tourism Minister Sermsak Pongpanit announced on Monday the establishment of a war room to assist tourists and tourism operators affected by the floods in the North and the landslide in Phuket.

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