Phitsanulok Prepares for Drought and Dry Spells with Community Water-Management Measures

The municipal government and provincial water agencies in Phitsanulok have jointly announced measures to cope with extreme weather during the hot season and the risk of intermittent rains that are expected to affect agricultural areas and communities in the Yom River basin this year. The emergency water-management plan includes reserving water for household use, developing small water storage sites, and supporting farmers to shift to more drought-tolerant farming practices.

According to the latest weather data, agencies predict that some periods of the rainy season may see below-average rainfall, causing water levels in small reservoirs and some local catchments to fall. The province’s preparedness focuses on strengthening the resilience of community-level water sources by promoting dredging of irrigation canals, restoring ponds, harvesting rainwater through volunteer systems, and installing small solar-powered pumps to boost water supply in remote areas.

One major initiative is the “community water bank,” supported by local authorities and independent development agencies. The project involves creating community water storage, setting up village water-management committees, and training residents in systematic water governance so communities can allocate water resources appropriately and fairly. There are also urgent measures to secure drinking-water sources by installing large storage tanks at schools and subdistrict health centers.

The province places priority on the impact to farmers, since agriculture is the primary income source for many households. Assistance plans include agricultural advisory services to transition to lower-water-use crops, support for drip irrigation and water-saving technologies, access to drought-tolerant seeds, and knowledge-sharing on integrated farming practices to reduce risk. The provincial agriculture office will work with the Land Development Office to assess needs and allocate budgets to support necessary tools and materials.

Beyond structural measures, Phitsanulok emphasizes communication and public participation. Authorities are publicizing household water-saving advice, rainwater-harvesting methods, and preparations for potential water-use restrictions. A provincial water information center has been established to compile real-time data on rainfall, water reserves, and community guidance so local agencies and residents can plan water use promptly.

Expected outcomes from these measures include reduced economic impacts from dry spells, lower risk of agricultural losses, and preservation of residents’ quality of life during crises. Cooperation among government, private sector, and local communities is expected to strengthen the sustainability of the area’s water systems. If the community water-bank model and water-management systems can be expanded to other districts in the province, they will further enhance regional water security.

Remaining challenges include budget allocation and effective integration of involved agencies. The province says it will closely monitor the situation and adjust measures as needed. District chiefs and village headmen have been appointed as local information focal points to ensure rapid, targeted responses. The ultimate goal is for people in Phitsanulok to maintain their livelihoods and daily life even during droughts or dry spells.