Phitsanulok Prepares for Drought — Implements Water and Tap-Water Measures to Protect Communities

Phitsanulok Province has put measures in place to prepare for the 2026 drought after reports of reduced rainfall and falling water levels in several key sources. Local agencies and community organizations are coordinating water-management plans to mitigate impacts on farmers, residents and the tourism sector that depend on natural water sources.

Data from the Office of National Water Resources show that stored water levels in the province’s main reservoirs have fallen more than 30 percent compared with long-term averages. The provincial government convened the Provincial Water Management Committee (PWMC) to set short- and long-term measures. Short-term actions include restricting water use in industry, scheduling water allocations for agriculture, and expanding tap-water distribution points for high-risk communities. Long-term measures focus on building small check dams to slow runoff, repairing existing irrigation systems, and creating water-storage ponds outside main irrigation zones.

Reduced water supplies are directly affecting smallholder farmers in many communities who grow rice and vegetables. Sommai, a farmer in Phrom Phiram District, said she has had to change planting areas this year, cut back on some plots and switch to lower-water crops like corn and yard-long beans. Households also need to secure alternative sources of water for drinking and domestic use. The district agriculture representative said training is being provided on water-efficient technologies, such as drip irrigation, and on managing dry-season farming to maximize yields with less water.

In tourism, the old town of Phitsanulok and areas along the Nan River that attract visitors have had to adjust some activities — for example, reducing boat trips when water levels are low, maintaining wastewater treatment to prevent concentrated pollution in remaining water sources, and coordinating with local communities to control activities that could degrade water bodies. Some tourism businesses have begun distributing information on eco-friendly tourism and promoting off-season travel to reduce crowding while water sources recover.

The provincial public-health agency emphasized hygiene by preparing to test the quality of distributed drinking water and urging tourism operators to maintain backup water supplies for firefighting and sanitation. In areas with intermittent tap-water service, clean-water distribution centers have been set up and residents can register for assistance. A public campaign encourages smart water storage and behavior change at home, such as using laundry rinse water to water plants and installing rainwater-collection systems for household use.

Phitsanulok’s water management is further supported by partnerships with the private sector and NGOs to fund well drilling, repair water-transmission pipes and develop water-saving technologies. For the long term, the province aims to promote urban planning and infrastructure development that build resilience to climate change. Community participation and public education are central to reducing drought impacts; with effective management, Phitsanulok residents can get through the crisis and be better prepared for the coming rainy season.