Report PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra Tackles Water Crisis with Groundwater Projects

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Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra demonstrated her commitment to resolving Thailand’s pressing water crisis during her recent visit to rural groundwater development sites in Kanchanaburi. On June 9, the Thai premier explored initiatives designed to enhance water supply and management, highlighting her hands-on approach to governance.

 

Her first stop was at the Royal Initiative Project on Groundwater Supply in Ban Pak Chat Nong Bua, located in the Nong Fai subdistrict of Lao Khwan district. Here, she received detailed briefings from the Department of Groundwater Resources about the ongoing project. The Prime Minister examined the tools used in groundwater detection and boring operations, gaining a firsthand understanding of the processes involved.

 

In a symbolic gesture to showcase the project's success, PM Paetongtarn sampled the treated groundwater, declaring it "as good as bottled water." She remarked on the absence of any unpleasant smell and praised the water quality, reinforcing the project's promise. Local residents, keen to benefit from the initiative, were seen eagerly filling up containers with clean water to take home.

 

The ambitious 14.85 billion baht project, launched under a royal initiative, aims to ensure consistent and clean water supply to communities that have historically faced shortages. It has already positively impacted over 100,000 families in Lao Khwan by reducing costs associated with drinking water and agriculture. "The government has allocated a significant portion of the economic stimulus budget to water supply initiatives," Paetongtarn emphasized, stressing the importance of clean water as a long-term investment in improving people's lives.

 

Continuing her tour, the Prime Minister visited the Ban Nong Bua Hing Project in Huai Krachao district, where she engaged with local residents to discuss their experiences with drought and water scarcity. Responding to concerns about high electricity costs, which pose a significant challenge to water pumping and purification, PM Paetongtarn announced a government-backed initiative to install solar panels in the region. This move is expected to decrease electricity expenses, promoting a more sustainable and cost-effective water supply.

 

PM Paetongtarn's proactive engagement with water resource management reflects her commitment to tackling Thailand's water challenges with innovative and sustainable solutions. Her efforts underline the government's dedication to improving the quality of life for Thai citizens by ensuring reliable access to clean water.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-10