Emergency response during the 2011 Chao Phraya River flood in Thailand

focusing on information sharing and coordination among governmental agencies

Abstract

Flaws in preparedness and disaster response by governmental agencies were suggested as one of the factors contributing to the damage caused by the 2011 Chao Phraya River flood. Through a field survey and interviews with relevant authorities, we were able to clarify the emergency response of the Thai government and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) focusing on information sharing and coordination. First, the expansion process of the Chao Phraya River flood and its damage was summarized. Second, the emergency response situation of both the Thai government and BMA and the flood recovery system were investigated. Finally, challenges for improving disaster response in Thailand were discussed.