WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT IN LOCAL ADMINISTRATIVE AREAS IN THAILAND

Abstract

Following the Local Administration Empowerment Act of 1999, the management of wastewater is one of the main tasks assigned to local administrative organizations. However, given the increasing number of responsibilities that local authorities must handle, they are often unable to perform all tasks effectively. There are also limitations in terms of personnel knowledge in wastewater management, budget, materials, and management, which remain key factors. Therefore, it is crucial for local authorities to adjust their roles, enhance their skills in management, and develop tools or aids to help with administration and solving various problems, especially the issue of wastewater management in local communities.

          To address this, local authorities in Thailand have conducted research and developed wastewater management measures at the local level to serve as a tool that supports local authorities in managing wastewater step-by-step. These measures enable local authorities to select effective solutions to their wastewater problems and provide detailed roles for related agencies to assist and support the implementation of each step of the local government’s operations.                                                                                    This article presents part of the findings from the study on wastewater management by local administrative organizations in the area. It highlights the current situation regarding wastewater problems, explains the ongoing operations, and analyzes factors related to the environmental management capabilities of local administrative organizations. Furthermore, it offers recommendations for developing the potential of local administrative organizations in wastewater management to make it more suitable and aligned with the emerging issues.