Thailand Country profiles 2011

Phatsita RERNGNIRUNSATHIT
Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation(DDPM)
Ministry of Interior
THAILAND2012
THAILAND

Disclaimer
This report was compiled by an ADRC visiting researcher (VR) from ADRC
member countries.
The views expressed in the report do not necessarily reflect the views of theADRC. The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on themaps in the report also do not imply official endorsement or acceptance by
the ADRC.

Thailand Country Profiles 2012

2

THAILAND
1. General Information
Thailand is located between 5º and 21º N latitude and between 97º and 106º E longitude.
It shares land borders with Myanmar (Burma) in the north and west, the Andaman Sea in thewest, Laos in the north and north-east, Cambodia and the Gulf of Thailand in the east, andMalaysia in the south.
1.1 Geographical Data
Thailand is situated in South-East Asia, covering an area of nearly 513,115 square
kilometers (198,114 square miles), extends about 1,620 kilometers (1,007 miles) from north tosouth and 750 kilometers (482 miles) at its widest point from east to west, or approximately thesame size as France, with a coastline of approximately 2,700 kilometers (1,143 miles) on the
Gulf of Thailand and 865 kilometers (537 miles) along the Indian Ocean. It is roughly the size of France.
Lowest point: Gulf of Thailand 0 m
Highest point: Doi Inthanon 2,576 m
Topography
Thailand is divided into four geographical regions: Central Thailand (including Bangkok),
Northern Thailand, Northeastern Thailand, and Southern Thailand.
The North Region The North Region is mainly
mountainous representing the most heavily forested
areas of the country. The region accommodates four
north-south flowing rivers namely Ping, Wang, Yom andNan. Most populated areas in the North are in the alluvial
valleys along these rivers. Chiang Mai, the second largest
city of Thailand, and Chiang Rai are among the wellknown cities.
The Northeast Region (Isarn) In terms of areasand population, Isarn is the biggest region of Thailand,
one-third of the country’s total areas. This region lies atopof Korat Plateau which is bound on the north and east by
Mekong River. There are two major rivers, Chi and Mun,
which run down to Mekong River.
The Central Region The Central Region(including Bangkok Metropolitan Region is situated in thebasin of the Chao Phrya River which runs from north tosouth and after crossing Bangkok flows to the Gulf ofThailand. This region is often referred as the "rice bowl" ofThailand being the most fertile area of the country.
The South Region The peninsular south consistsof the narrow Kra Isthmus that widens into the Malay
Peninsula. With a vast area of mountains, the SouthRegion has the highest rainfall in the country. It isconnected to the Indian Ocean in the west and to the
Pacific Ocean (Gulf of Thailand) in the east.
1.2 Climate information
General Climatic Conditions
The climate of Thailand is under the influence of monsoon winds of seasonal character i.e.
southwest monsoon and northeast monsoon. The southwest monsoon which starts in May
brings a stream of warm moist air from the Indian Ocean towards Thailand causing abundantrain over the country, especially the windward side of the mountains. Rainfall during this period
is not only caused by the southwest monsoon but also by the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone
(ITCZ) and tropical cyclones which produce a large amount of rainfall. May is the period of firstarrival of the ITCZ to the Southern Part. It moves northwards rapidly and lies across southern
China around June to early July that is the reason of dry spell over upper Thailand. The ITCZ
then moves southerly direction to lie over the Northern and Northeastern Parts of Thailand in
Thailand Country Profiles 20123

August and later over the Central and Southern Part in September and October, respectively.
The northeast monsoon which starts in October brings the cold and dry air from the anticyclone
in China mainland over major parts of Thailand, especially the Northern and Northeastern Parts
which is higher latitude areas. In the Southern Part, this monsoon causes mild weather andabundant rain along the eastern coast of the part.
The onset of monsoons varies to some extent. Southwest monsoon usually starts in mid-May
and ends in mid-October while northeast monsoon normally starts in mid-October and ends in
mid-February.
SeasonFrom the meteorological point of view the climate of Thailand may be divided into threeseasons as follows:
Rainy or southwest monsoon season (mid-May to mid-October).The southwest
monsoon prevails over Thailand and abundant rain occurs over the country. The wettest periodof the year is August to September. The exception is found in the Southern Thailand East Coast
where abundant rain remains until the end of the year that is the beginning period of thenortheast monsoon and November is the wettest month.
Winter or northeast monsoon season (mid-October to mid-February). This is the mild
period of the year with quite cold in December and January in upper Thailand but there is a greatamount of rainfall in Southern Thailand East Coast, especially during October to November.
Summer or pre-monsoon season (mid-February to mid-May) This is the transitional
period from the northeast to southwest monsoons. The weather becomes warmer, especially inupper Thailand. April is the hottest month.
1.3 Demographic data
Official Name: Kingdom of Thailand
Capital (and largest city): Bangkok (Thai : Krung Thep)
Population: 65.9 million (source: National Statistical Office, Ministry of Information andCommunication Technology: 2010)
Population density: 127.5 per sq.km. (Source: National Statistical Office.2010)
Languages: Thai, English (secondary language of the elite), ethnic and regional dialects.
Official script: Thai alphabet
Nationality : Thai 75%, Chinese 14%, other 11% Religions : Buddhist 94.6%, Muslim 4.6%,
Christian 0.7%,
Life expectancy: Male 69.9 Female 74.9 (source: Report on The 1995-1996 Survey ofPopulation Change, National Statistical Office.)
Major religion: Buddhism
Monetary unit: 1 baht = 100 satangs
1.4 Administrations
Type of government: Constitutional monarchy
Head of state: King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX).
Prime minister: Prime Minister
Administrative Divisions: Thailand has 76 provinces (changwat) and Bangkok municipality.
The provinces are divided into 998 districts (amphoe), 8,860 rural administrative subdistricts (tambon) .
Types of government administrations: the central, provincial and local.
Provincial and Local Government: Local government is based on the principles ofdecentralization and self-government when certain legal conditions are met. Under the 1997
constitution, elected local assemblies and elected or appointed local administrative committees
were allowed four-year terms. Central government officials could not serve as local officials.
Bangkok is a provincial-level entity with an elected governor and the legislative Metropolitan
Administration Council. Supervision of provincial and local government takes place through the
Department of Local Administration of the Ministry of Interior.

Thailand Country Profiles 20124

2. Natural hazards in Thailand
Thailand is in a tropical zone which is subject to the influences of monsoons and tropicalhurricanes resulting in natural disaster impacts, such as floods, landslides, droughts, wildfires,etc. Summaries of the hazard, vulnerability and disaster risks in Thailand have been extracted
from a study prepared by the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center, the Asian Institute ofTechnology and the United Nations Development Program - “Strengthened Disaster
Management Strategies in Thailand”, a project of the Royal Thai Government, March 1994,(THA/88/004), are presented in Table 1.1 and Table 1.2 below.
Table 1.1: Relative Risks of Hazards, Vulnerability, Level of Management and DisasterOccurrence in Thailand
Types of Disaster
Flood
Typhoon/Hurricane
Earthquake
Landslide
Drought
Fire
ExplosionAccident
Epidemics
Pests
Civil Unrest
Refugee migration

Hazard
high
high
low
moderate
high
high
high
high
low
moderatelowmoderate

Vulnerability
moderate
high
low
low
moderate
moderate
moderate
moderate
low
low
low
Low

Management
Moderate
moderatepoor
poor
moderate
moderatepoor
poor
moderatepoor
poor
moderate

Disaster Risk
highmoderate
moderate
moderate
moderate
moderate
high
high
low
moderate
moderate
moderate

Table 1.2: Rank Order of Risk of Disasters in Thailand
Type of Disasters
Flood
Accident
Explosive
TyphoonDrought
Fire
Land slide
Earthquake
Civil Unrest/Refugee Influx
Pests
Epidemic

Subjective
Rank
high
high
high
moderate
moderate
moderate
moderate
moderate
moderate
moderate
low

Numeric WeightThailand Country Profiles 2012

2.39
2.37
2.34
2.31
2.24
2.20
2.15
1.97
1.87
1.77
1.63

5

The occurrences of natural disaster in Thailand are subject to seasonal cycle such as
cold spell, drought, flood, landslide and storm.
Table 1.3 Disaster Seasoning Calendar
Type of DisasterNaturalNatural/humaninducedDisaster/Event
1. Cold spell
2. Drought
3. Flood
4. Landslide
5. Tropical Cyclone
6. Earthquake
7. Storm surge
1. Forest fire

Periods of Time (month)
October – January
January – May
October – November and June – September
October – November and June – September
March – May
Year – round surveillance
October – November
Year – round surveillance
Northern region April – May
Northeastern region November – May
Central region
Eastern region
March - May
Southern region

Source: Implementation Handbook 2009, Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation
2.1 Natural Hazards likely to affect the country
Looking into the past major disasters happening in Thailand, it was not only the 2004
Indian Ocean Tsunami that came to devastate the country. Long before that Thailand
experienced other major natural disasters as well. These include Typhoon Gay in 1989 that hit asouthern province of Chumporn, claiming almost 500 lives, and landslide in a northern part ofcountry in 2001 where 131 people perished.
Flood, landslide, forest fire, wind damage, drought, lightening, hail and epidemics are
the major disasters. Flood is by far the worst disasters in Thailand. Between 2002 and 2010
flood killed more than 1,000 people and brought damage and loss in economic terms morethan 40 billion Baht. It out numbers the damage caused by all other disasters combined during
the period.
Landslides occur frequently in Thailand due to the influence of monsoon rain. In mostcases, landslide would occur in the northern and southern parts of the country which aremountainous. The table below provides information of large scale landslide events taken placeover the past four decades.
Although drought does not pose danger to human life but it does cause a greatdamage to the economy and livelihood of the people especially in rural areas. Occasionally,
Thailand experienced tropical storms.
Thailand suffers quite often from these disasters; the occurrences of which arebecoming more often and more severe than before. The table below concludes the detail ofnatural disaster occurrence in Thailand during 2005 – 2010.

Thailand Country Profiles 20126

Table 1.4 Thailand’s Disaster Situation Summary in 2010
year
2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

2005

Disastertype
Flood
Drought
Cold Spell
Storm
Fire
Flood
Drought
Cold Spell
Storm
Fire
Flood
Drought
Cold Spell
Storm
Fire
Flood
Drought
Cold Spell
Storm
Fire
Flood
Drought
Cold Spell
Storm
Fire
Flood
Drought
Cold Spell
Storm
Fire

Frequency

KilledInjured

7
n/a
n/a
2,192
1,903
5
n/a
n/a
1,348
5,127
6
n/a
n/a
1,995
1,696
13
n/a
n/a
2233
1,901
6
n/a
n/a
1,883
1,734
12
n/a
n/a
1,313
1,559

266
0
0
30
29
53
0
0
24
83
113
0
0
15
30
36
0
0
10
45
446
0
0
29
37
75
0
0
13
48

1,665
0
0
174
83
22
0
0
26
312
16
0
0
30
92
17
0
0
71
156
1,462
0
0
39
66
0
0
0
0
68

Total
affected
13,485,963
4,077,411
10,609,301
407,271
8,912
8,881,758
17,353,358
10,588,881
360,1546,549
7,921,127
13,298,895
9,554,992
242,944
8,392
2,326,179
16,754,980
5,910,339
245,619
9,761
6,050,674
11,862,358
2,303,703
142,849
9,708
2,874,673
11,147,627
3,742,793
61,42923,250Damaged(Baht)
16,338,772,341
1,415,223,466
n/a
198,845,340
1,283,787,066
5,252,613,976
108,346,716
n/a
207,373,975
817,334,839
7,601,796,302
103,900,841
n/a
227,549,741
1,424,889,050
1,687,865,982
198,304,732
n/a
234,547,154
875,791,793
9,627,418,620
495,275,738
n/a
92,244,108
1,083,845,622
5,982,283,276
7,565,861,139
n/a
148,871,750
931,191,005

Damaged(USD)
536,577,088
46,476,961
n/a
6,530,244
42,160,494
172,499,637
3,558,184
n/a
6,810,311
26,841,866
249,648,482
3,412,178
n/a
7,472,897
46,794,385
55,430,738
6,512,470
n/a
7,702,697
28,761,635
316,171,383
16,265,213
n/a
3,029,363
35,594,273
196,462,504
248,468,346
n/a
4,889,055
30,580,985(1 USD = 30.45 Baht)

Source: Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM)
2.2 Recent major disasters
2011: Severe flooding occurred during the 2011 monsoon season in Thailand. Beginningat the end of July triggered by the landfall of Tropical Storm Nock-ten, flooding soon spreadthrough the provinces of Northern, Northeastern and Central Thailand along the Mekong andChao Phraya river basins. In October floodwaters reached the mouth of the Chao Phraya andinundated parts of the capital city of Bangkok. Flooding persisted in some areas until midJanuary 2012, and resulted in a total of 815 deaths (as of JAN. 17, 2012) (with 3 missing) and13.6 million people in 4 regions affected. Sixty-five of Thailand's 77 provinces were declared
flood disaster zones, and over 20,000 square kilometers (7,700 sq mi) of farmland wasdamaged. The disaster has been described as "the worst flooding yet in terms of the amount ofwater and people affected."The World Bank has estimated 1,425 billion baht (US$ 45.7 Bn) in
economic damages and losses due to flooding, as of 1 December 2011. Most of this was to the
manufacturing industry, as seven major industrial estates were inundated by as much 3 meters(10 feet) during the floods.

Thailand Country Profiles 20127

2010: In 2010 the impacts of tropical storms together with the influence of the active
monsoon trough lying over Thailand has brought losses and damages to the country, particularlyin the sector of agriculture, fishery, tourism, and to overall activities of the people. During theyear 2010, Thailand was affected by the influence of 2 main tropical storms, namely Tropical
Storm Mindulle (22-28 August 2010) and Tropical Depression (31 October – 2 November).
Besides the influences from Typhoon related disaster, this year Thailand was also suffered fromthe flooding crisis from the vigorous monsoon clouds poured heavy rainfall over Thailand which
occurred in over 51 provinces of Thailand. More than 8.9 million people and 2.6 households had
been affected by flooding since the flood hit on October 10, 2010. The death toll has reached
257 in 29 provinces and the economic loss was estimated to be more than USD 1.5 Billion.
The Tropical Storm “Mindulle” was moving over the East of Donghoi, Viet Nam. On
August 24, 2010 the monsoon then increased its intensity as Severe Tropical Storm andexpanded across Thailand, Lao PDR, Cambodia and Viet Nam. The effects of Midulle caused
heavy rainfall and flood in the north and northeastern parts of Thailand until September 15, 2010.
The total affected areas covered more 39 provinces and affected over million populations. For
712 people were evacuated and there were 2 deaths due to the flood.
The estimated damages were over USD 185 million with damages to 87,000 hectare of
agricultural areas, more than 57,000 livestock, 5,881 roads, 186 bridges, 44 schools, and 80
mines.
In the beginning of October 2010 the low pressure area, moving over Southern, Central,
Eastern part coupled with South East Monsoon has caused damage to 19 provinces, 94 districts,
716 sub-district, 5,474 villages, 545,447 households and 1,694,199 persons.
Those provinces include 1 province in Northern part (Nakornsawan); 9 in Northeastern part
(Nakornratchasima, Chaiyaphum, Srisakes, Surin, Khonkaen, Kalasin, Mahasarakham, Roi Et
and Ubonratchathani; 9 Central Provinces (Chainart, Singburi, Angthong, Suphanburi, Pra NakhonSi
Ayutthaya, Lopburi, Saraburi, Nonburi and Pathumthani). It is estimated that 6,316,156 rai offarmland (2,497,210 acres) are destroyed.
In addition, on October 31, 2010 the Tropical Depression moved into the Gulf ofThailand over the Southern part of Thailand, causes heavy rainfall and flooding which affected in
12 provinces, 133 districts, 874 sub-districts, 6,197 villages, 609,511 households and 1,932,405
persons. There were 78 casualties in 8 provinces, 1,499 injuries. The estimated losses were
USD 104 million.
2004: December 2004’s Tsunami: the Most Catastrophic Disaster in Thai
At 07.58 a.m., of 26 December 2004, the massive earthquake magnitude of 9.0, thestrongest in the world since 1964, struck deep under the Indian Ocean off the west coast of
Sumatra, Indonesia, and triggered the cataclysmic tidal wave that slammed on the Andamancoastal provinces, southern Thailand. The catastrophic incident devastated 6 provinces namely,
Phuket, Trang, Phang Nga, Krabi, Ranong and Satun.
Right after the tsunami waves ebbed, the relief activities were immediately andcontinuously activated. It is widely accepted that Thailand had led an effective relief efforts andresponse immediately on the day of tsunami strike. As the consequence, Thailand had achieved
the rapid success in relief operation within a few months later. The key factors in theeffectiveness of relief response can be delineated as follows;- The synergy of Thai people from all walks of life to provide all kinds of assistance totheir suffered countrymen.
- The close and integrated collaboration and cooperation among the civil, military, police,
NGOs, charitable foundations, civil defence volunteers etc.
- The influx of endless support and humanitarian assistance from international
communities, organizations, NGOs near and far.
The Royal Thai Government, private sector and NGOs, have continuously launched
restoration activities to enhance livelihoods and rebuild the environments of the affected people
and areas following the initial phase of rescue and humanitarian relief. Simultaneously, hasconducted preparedness activities so as to reduce the vulnerability and increase the resiliencein the tsunami hit communities. The international communities, NGOs and United Nations
mechanisms also continue to endlessly support Thailand in these humanitarian assistanceactivities.
Thailand Country Profiles 20128

2007: Cyclone Lekima hit Thailand between 4 and 6 October 2007 killed 17, affected
1,552,936, and whose total loss was US$ 30.8 million.
2008: Cyclone Mekkahla hit between 31 September and 1 October 2008. The cyclone
caused torrential rains which killed 32, affected 2,864,484 and whose total loss was US$ 21.6
million.

3. Disaster Management system
3.1 Legal system, legal framework
3.1.1 The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act 2007:
The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act 2007 (DPM Act) has replaced the old andoutdated 1979 Civil Defense Act and the 1999 Fire Prevention and Suppression Act. Entering
into force on 6 November 2007,
It stipulates the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) as the core
government department in handling national disaster management work. Also it authorizes local
governments to take responsibility of disaster management in their respective areas, in line with
the Provincial Plan.
The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act 2007 (DPM Act) has 4 prominent features,
including1) Introducing 3 main policy - making and planning bodies including National, Provincial
and Bangkok Metropolitan,
2) Having Prime Minister or an designated Deputy Minister as the National Commander,3) Empowering Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) as the core
government agency in handling national disaster management work, and
4) Authorizing local governments to take responsibility of disaster management in theirrespective areas, in line with the Provincial Plan.
According to the new DPM Act, disaster can be classified into 3 categories namely:
1) Man-made and natural disasters;2) Disaster resulted from air raid during wartime; and
3) Disaster resulted from sabotage or terrorist attack.
In terms of policy making, there are 3 levels:
1) National, which is chaired by the Prime Minister or designated Deputy Minister
2) Provincial, which is chaired by Provincial Governor
3) Bangkok Metropolitan Administration level, which is chaired by the Bangkok Governor.
Each of three policy - making organs is composed of the committee as follows:
1) The National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Committee (NDPMC)
2) The Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Committee
3) The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Committee
3.1.2 Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Plan
Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) as the Secretariat of the
National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Committee (NDPMC), has the responsibility todevise the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Plan. This is to be done by conferringwith relevant government agencies, local administrations, and private sectors.
Once the National Plan is approved, it will be used as a master plan, upon which theprovincial and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration will be based.
According to the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act 2007, the three - levelplan shall have substantial parts as shown in the following table.
Thailand Country Profiles 20129

National plan

Provincial Plan

BMA Plan(1) Guide lines, measures and adequate
budget to support disaster prevention andmitigation operations systemically andcontinuously(1) The setting up ofSpecial CommandCenter when everdisasters strike, that
center shall be
constructed and has
authorities tocommand and oversee
disaster prevention
and mitigation
operations andactivities(1) establishment ofcommand center
where disasteroccurred forconstruction andauthorization fordisaster prevention
and mitigation
operation(2) Guide lines and methods for providing
aids and mitigate the impacts of disasters inboth short and long term, together with
evacuation procedures of effected people,
government services, and other local
administrations, supports effected people on
their public health, public utilities andcommunication system(2) Plan andprocedures for local
administrations for
procuring tools,
equipments, materials,
hardware and vehicles
in disaster prevention
and mitigation
operations(2) plan and process
to procure materials ,tools , equipment, andvehicle for disasterprevention andmitigation(3)Relevant government agencies and local
administrations shall proceed all operations
under (1) and (2), and shall seek foravailability and mobility of fund(3) Plan andprocedures for local
administrations for
procuring an early
warning system andother equipments to
inform people andcommunities on
incoming disasters(3) plan and process
to procure signaling
devices or others for
notifying theoccurrence andexpectation of adisaster(4)Preparedness perspectives on support
personnel, equipments and other materials to
deploy upon disaster prevention andmitigation operations, and capacity building of
those personnel and other people shall be
included(4) Operation plan fordisaster prevention
and mitigation at local
administrations(4) Bangkok Disaster
Prevention and
Mitigation Action
Operation Plan

(5) Guide line on fixing, recovery andrestoration to community right after disaster(5) Cooperation plan toother relevant publiccharities.

(5) Coordination Plan
with Public Charity
Organizations in
BangkokThailand Country Profiles 201210

3.2 Structure of Disaster Management
Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act B. E. 2550 (2007) has explicitly prescribed andexplicated disaster management arrangement that encompasses the types of disaster, policy
guideline, operating procedure as well as coordinating procedure as illustrated in chart 1.1 :The Prime Minister
Order

ReportCoordinate

NDPMC
Coordinate

NSCT
AssistRequestNC

DDPM

International
Agency

Order

CD
Order

DPMRC 1-18! Request(Director)

PD or BMD
AssistOrder

AssistAssistNear by
PD
Order

AssistRequestNear by
DD/LD

Response
Unit

Response/Relief
Unit

RequestSupportCoordinate(Order – incaseof MOD

RequestArmed Forces

AssistRequest

DD/BMDA/LD

Order

Order

Ministry/
Department

Monitoring

Order
Mobilize
Civil Defence
VolunteerPrivate Sector/
Foundation

Order

SupportResponse Unit

Response
Unit

Response
Unit

Disaster Stricken Area
Chart 1.1 Current Disaster Management Arrangements in Thailand(1) The Prime Minister is a chairman of National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation
Committee. In case of extreme large – scale disaster the Prime Minister has been empowered
to command National Commander, Director, state agency, and local administration organization
to handle disaster situation.
(2) National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Committee, which is chaired by thePrime Minister or the entrusted Deputy Prime Minister is obligated to lay down a policy for theformulation of National Disaster Prevention Mitigation Plan and integrate the development ofdisaster management system. Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation as the
Secretariat of National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Committee has been tasked toformulate the aforesaid plan in conjunction with relevant government agencies including therepresentatives from local administration organization.
(3) The National Safety Council of Thailand is the main body responsible for formulating
the accident – related policy and developing safety mind. Department of Disaster Prevention
and Mitigation as well functions as the Secretariat of National Safety Council ofThailand.
(4) All disaster operations related command, order and management at national,
provincial/Bangkok Metropolis and local levels must precede according to the Act as illustrated
in chart 1.1

Thailand Country Profiles 201211

Table 1.5: Component of National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Committee and its roles
National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Committee and its roles
Committee Members
Mission
1. Chairman:- Prime Minister or Deputy
1. Establish the National Disaster
Prime Minister as assigned
Prevention and Mitigation
2. Vice Chairman 1- Minister of Ministry of Interior;
Policy for establishing the master
Vice Chairman 2- Permanent Secretary plan.
Ministry of Interior
2. Approve the National Disaster3. Committee:- Permanent Secretary Prevention and Mitigation Plan
Ministry of Defence;
before submission to the cabinet.
- Permanent Secretary 3. Integration and develop the
Ministry of Social
Disaster Prevention andDevelopment and Human
Mitigation Plan of government
Security;
agencies, local government- Permanent Secretary agencies and private agencies.
Ministry of Agriculture and4. Provide advice, consultation andCooperatives;support the implementation of- Permanent Secretary Disaster Prevention and
Ministry of Transportations;
Mitigation’s mission- Permanent Secretary 5. Regulate the rules of
Ministry of Natural Resources
remuneration, compensation andand Environment;
any expenses of the Disaster- Permanent Secretary - Ministry
Prevention and Mitigationof Information andimplementation
Communication Technology;
6. Perform other missions as- Permanent Secretary - Ministry
mentioned in this Act or otherof Public Health;Acts or assigned by the Cabinet.
- Director of the Bureau of the
Budget;- Commander-in-Chief of theRoyal Thai Police;- Supreme Commander;- Commander-in-Chief of theRoyal Thai Air Force;- Commander-in-Chief of theRoyal Thai Army;- Commander-in-Chief of theRoyal Thai Navy;- Secretary-General National
Security Council;- and not more than five qualified
persons appointed by the
Cabinets as committee members.
4. Secretary:
The Director General, DDPM,
5. Assistant Secretary: 2 DDPM Officers

3.3 National Safety Council of Thailand (NSCT)
Apart from National Civil Defence Committee, Thailand has another disastermanagement related mechanism which has highlighted its tasks and responsibility on manmade disaster management only, that is “The National Safety Council of Thailand” (NSCT). The
NSCT has been established in 1982 on the ground of the problem of road traffic accidents in
Thailand which annually resulted in the tremendous loss of lives, properties and national
economy. Later on, its responsibilities have been extended to cover the prevention of chemical
accident, occupational accident, accident in home and public venues, considering preventive
measure of fire in high-rise building, accident prevention in subway tunnel construction,
providing education of safety etc.
Thailand Country Profiles 201212

3.4 National Disaster Warning Center
The National Disaster Warning Center was established under the Order of the Office of
the Prime Minister. It is to protect lives and properties of Thai people and foreign visitors bysetting up the National Warning Center as soon as possible.
The major task of the National Disaster Warning Center is to detect earthquake and toanalyze seismic data to determine the possibility of a Tsunami generation before issuingnotification messages to the public and related authorities and rescuers for evacuation of people
into safe places. This is to prevent the loss of people’s lives and properties as much as possible.
From now on, the National Disaster Warning Center will be developed, upgraded of its early
warning system and extended its telecommunication networks to be able to cope with multihazards disasters apart from Tsunami. Now, NDWC had transferred to be under of the Ministryof Information and Communication Technology
3.5 Implementing Mechanism Arrangement
The following implementing mechanisms will be established to undertake disastermanagement responsibilities.
3.5.1 National Command Headquarters
The power and duty of National Command Headquarters are to direct, control,
oversee, supervise, and coordinate disaster operations undertaken by Emergency Operations
Centers of all levels. The Headquarters is headed by the Minister of Ministry of Interior as
National Commander and other functioning staffs which comprise permanent secretary for
Ministry of Interior as the Deputy National Commander, director general of Department ofDisaster Prevention and Mitigation as the Central Director, the representatives from every
government agency, public enterprise and the designated private entity. The main administration
staffs of the headquarters will be the personnel from Department of Disaster Prevention and
Mitigation.
3.5.2 Local Command Center
This category of center includes :(1) Tambon Administration Organization Command Center is headed by chief
executive of tambon administration organization (TAO) as the Director, other functioning staffs of
the center comprise TAO clerk as the Deputy Local Director, sub - district headman, village
headman and the representatives from private sector located within tambon jurisdiction. This
first response mechnism is responsible for disaster operations within tambon jurisdiction.
(2) Municipality Command Center is headed by the mayor as Director; otherfunctioning staffs of the center comprise municipal Clerk as the Deputy Director, chiefs ofdifferent divisions of municipality and the designated private sector’s representatives. This first
response mechanism is responsible for disaster operations within its jurisdiction.
(3) Pattaya City Command Center is headed by Pattaya City mayor as the
Director, other functioning staffs of this center comprise Pattaya City clerk as the Deputy Director,
chiefs of different divisions of Pattaya City office and the designated private sector’s
representatives. This first response mechanism is responsible for disaster prevention andmitigation operations within its jurisdiction.
(4) District Command Center is headed by district chief as the District Director,
other functioning staffs of this center comprise district clerk, chiefs of different divisions of district
office, representatives of the local administration organization and private sector located in
district jurisdiction. The main function of this center is to carry out disaster operations within the
district jurisdiction and to assist the provincial disaster operations.
(5) Bangkok Metropolitan District Command Center is headed by each Bangkok
Metropolitan District Director as the Bangkok Metropolitan Assistant Director. This center is
responsible for conducting disaster operations within district jurisdiction as well as assisting
Bangkok Metropolitan Director. All officials of divisions and sectors of Bangkok Metropolitan
district office and the representatives from public sector within its jurisdiction are the functioning
staffs of this center. In addition, this center is obliged to assist Bangkok Metropolitan
Administration in managing a disaster within Bangkok Metropolitan jurisdiction.
(6) Provincial Command Center is headed by provincial governor as theProvincial Director, and deputy provincial governor whom entrusted by provincial governor
Thailand Country Profiles 201213

including chief executive of provincial administration organization are Deputy Provincial
Directors. The functioning staffs comprise the chiefs of different government offices located in
the province and the representatives from designated public and private enterprises.
(7) Bangkok Metropolitan Command Center is headed by Bangkok Metropolitan
governor as the Bangkok Metropolitan Director, and a permanent secretary for Bangkok
Metropolitan Administration as the Bangkok Metropolitan Deputy Director. This center is
responsible for disaster operations within Bangkok Metropolitan jurisdiction.
Tasks of Local Command Center(1) Direct, control, perform and coordinate disaster management activities within thearea under responsibility.
(2) Provide support to adjacent and other Command Centers upon request.
(3) Coordinate with government agencies and other relevant public enterprises locatedin the area under responsibility including private sector for cooperation on disaster management.
When a disaster occurs or is imminent in area under responsibility, the respective
Command Center is obliged to establish Emergency Operations Center to provide assistance tothe people in short notice.
The structure of implementing mechanism arrangement is illustrated in chart 1.2
Chart 1.2 Implementing Mechanism Arrangement

Thailand Country Profiles 201214

3.6 Priority on disaster reduction management
Priority on disaster risk management
Thailand urgently needs to reform disaster management systems and mechanisms asfollows:
1) Public Awareness and Education. Improve public safety of every sector particularly
those who are living with risk by enhancing people’s understanding of the threats posed byvarious types of disasters.
2) Materializing Early Warning Systems: Following the catastrophic tsunami disaster in
2004, Thailand took immediate action to establish National Disaster Warning Center, which
covers the warning of both natural and man-made disasters.
3) Establishing More International Disaster Management Networks: Thailand needs toenhance the country’s disaster management capacity and efficiency through the mobilization oftechnical assistance from foreign countries, particularly from developed and advanced countries.
4) Effective Damage Assessment: Remote Survey technology must be introduced toeffectively assess the damages caused by large scale disaster. The staff of the agencies
concerned needs to be trained to enhance their capacity in applying satellite images to assessthe damage.
5) Application of Community-Centered Approach: Local Authority and community are in
the front line in the event of disaster occurrence, consequently, they are the most vulnerable andeffected. It is indispensable to enhance their potentials in responding to disasters, and to equipthem with awareness and preparedness.
6) Highlight on Preventive Approach: The new approach of disaster management has
shifted its focus from “assistance” or “relief” to “prevention”. In this regard, risk reduction to bevigorously taken into account. So as to reduce the risk, both structural and non-structural
measures should be materialized, thus, the cost of risk reduction will yield invaluable rate of
return when compared with the cost of disaster damage.
7) The Focus on Prevention: Proactive disaster management can reduce the damage
and impact substantially.
8) The Focus on Public Participation: The past disaster management in Thailand had
underlined the roles of government agencies and simply ignored private sectors, non –government organization, communities and even the public. Unfortunately, there has been alack of cooperation among agencies concerned. This is a real challenge for DDPM to bringthese stakeholders together.
9) The Focus on Unity in Management: The application of the Incident Command
System (ICS) will demonstrate unity in management.
10) The Focus on Efficient Communication: The efficient communication system consistsof the major system and the reserved system, which are vital for disaster management.
11) The Focus on Human Resource Development: Human resource development is a
key factor for disaster management.
12) Livelihood Rehabilitation: Livelihood rehabilitation activities such as community
development, vocational training, improving the standards of living should be immediatelymaterialized to normalize disaster victims’ means of living.

Thailand Country Profiles 201215

3.7 Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation
Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), according to the Bureaucrat
Reform Act 2002, has been formed by different organizations responsible for disaster prevention
and mitigation as follows:(1) Civil Defence Division of Department of Provincial Administration;(2) Department of Accelerated Rural Development;(3) Department of Social Welfare, Department of Community Development; and(4) Office of National Safety Council
According to Article 11 of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act B.E.2550, DDPM is
mandated to be central government agency under the umbrella of Ministry of Interior toundertake the work on disaster prevention and mitigation at a national level. Aside its Head
Office in Bangkok, DDPM also has 18 Regional Operation Centers and 75 Provincial Offices
across the country. In 2004, Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Academy (DPMA) has been
established and 6 campus in Prachinburi, Songkhla, Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Phuket,
Phitsanulok which is currently conducting training for its own staffs, some government
stakeholders and private organization.
DDPM’s responsibility:
1.Materializing disaster and civil emergency prevention and warning Systems and creating
preparedness in all areas.
2.Directing and implementing disaster and civil emergency mitigation activity
systematically, rapidly, equitably and thoroughly.
3.Procurement of materials, equipments, and vehicles, indispensable for disasterprevention, mitigation, suppression and for relief operation.
4. Rehabilitation of damaged public utilities, physical and mental recuperation of disastervictim, and restoration of livelihood. All these activities are carried out on thorough, equitable
and rapid basis, and be in harmony with the needs of the victims.
5.Mainstreaming and collaborating disaster prevention and mitigation system,
programme, the implementation evaluation with other national and international agencies.
Disaster Management in DDPM’s main activities
Disaster Management comprises 3 phases as follow;
1. Preparedness Phase: DDPM has supported the provinces to carry out preparedness
related activities as follow;(1) Formulating disaster prevention plan.
(2) Training the officials and Civil Defence Volunteer.
(3) Educating the general public.
(4) Procuring equipments, vehicles and other amenities and safety temporary shelters.
(5) Conducting annual drills and exercise in different levels.
2. Prevention and Mitigation Phase: In the event of disaster or the potential disaster,
DDPM will implement the following activities.
(1) Early warning: After receiving the information of potential disaster from
Department of Meteorological and Department of Mineral Resources, DDPM will immediately
relay to the risk province to further warn the people of the hazard or evacuate the people.
(2) Directing Unit: The National Committee will set up “Operation Center” tomanage disaster(3) Providing relief operation to the affected people thoroughly and rapidly.
(4) Coordinating: In the event of large-scale disaster, DDPM will coordinate with allagencies concerned to mobilize relief efforts to affected areas.
(5)Telecommunication: The Director of National Committee is authorized to utilize
all telecommunication facilities in the affected areas. DDPM will coordinate with
telecommunication concerned agencies to provide the substitute facilities in case thetelecommunication system in the affected area broke down.
(6) Public Relations: At national level, DDPM is responsible for disseminating theThailand Country Profiles 201216

disaster related information to the public continuously to protect the life and property of thecitizens. Moreover to alert the possibility of disaster just before a strong tremor is expected to
strike as “a warning”
3. Recovery Phase: DDPM is responsible for(1) Providing relief to affected people: Provincial/District/Local authorities assess thedamages and losses and enlist the affected persons. DDPM will carry out to pay cash
compensation the victims.
(2) Clean-up: DDPM will coordinate with all agencies concerned to mobilize theequipments to conduct clean-up activities.
(3) Long-term Rehabilitation: DDPM is responsible for coordinating with all agencies
concerned to collect all relevant information on long-term rehabilitation projects and further
submit for cabinet’s approval

4. Projects on disaster reduction
4.1 One-Tambon-One-Search and Rescue Team (OTOS)DDPM has realized the urgent need to setup efficient and skillful search and rescue
team at provincial, district and local levels. In this regard, DDPM has launched OTOS program
which contains ; at the provincial level, the training of provincial SAR teams were completed andhave been assigned to be SAR instructors ; at district level, district SAR team have been trained
to become instructors as well ; at Tambon level (Thailand’s administrative unit in between district
and village). As of November 2009, OTOS program is 85% completed with 6,615 SAR teams(10 members) based in each tambon or local administration offices throughout the country andmore than 68,000 volunteers trained.

4.2 Disaster Management Training for managers, practicioners, local government
officers and others through DDPM’s Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Academy (DPMA)
Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has set up Disaster Prevention and
Mitigation Academy (DPMA) in October 2004 to be the national training center in the field of
disaster management. DPMA has coordinated with the agencies and developed countries
including international organizations to develop curricula and mobilize the technology and knowhow for standardize training. The courses will be organized to serve the capacity of thegovernment officers, local administration officers and private sector who are in charge of thedisaster management including civil defence volunteers. Nowadays, DPMA has extended to 6
campuses in upcountry. The standard curricula have consisted of the Fire Fighting, Building
Collapse (Search and Rescue), Hazmat Emergency Management, Civil Defense Volunteer andDisaster Management.

Thailand Country Profiles 201217

4.3 Community-Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM) Program
DDPM has adopted and applied this appropriate people participatory approach togenerate the awareness among the general public and mobilize their participation in every
phase of disaster management so as to build safer and resilient community. In the past year,
DDPM, in collaboration with various government agencies, local authorities, NGOs andinternational organizations, has launched CBDRM program in hundreds of communities at risk.
This program will be jointly organized on the continuous to cover all vulnerable communities
nation-wide.
4.4 “Mr. Warning” Training Program
In conjunction with various government agencies and NGO, DDPM has implemented acommunity-based volunteer training program which aims at creating a disaster warning networkin the flashflood and mud slide prone villages. The trained villagers are designated as“Mr. Warning” and assigned to be the “vigilant”, “forewarner” and “coordinator” in emergency andnon-emergency situation respectively. T his program has been in concerted with its preceded
program, “Simple Rain Gauge Installation” program. Nowadays, the 7,817 people in the floodprone areas to be trained in this programme.

4.5 Emergency Response Team Development Project (ERT)
Emergency Response Team or ERT has been developing by DDPM to response foreach type of large-scale hazards or incidents. Basically, ERT was set up 20 teams, 2 teams
embedded in DDPM, Bangkok Office, and the other 18 teams in each Regional Center of DDPM.
Each ERT will consist 10 members, including one team leader, three for planning, and six for
operation. Team leader will be the chief officer to coordinate with Provincial Director and officersof the Ad-Hoc Directing Center in case of disaster occurring.

Thailand Country Profiles 201218

4.6 Development of Civil Defence Volunteer Network Program
The main objective of this program is to increase the number of community-based Civil
Defence Volunteer whose function is to holistically assist the government official’s operation of
all disaster. Currently, there are approximately 1 million Civil Defence Volunteers that had been
trained and registered nation-wide. These Civil Defence Volunteers are based in theircommunity and are on stand-by to be summoned all time.

4.7 Practical disaster preparedness drills in a community
Provincial evacuation plan and drill: Apart from formulating Provincial Civil Defense Plan,
all provincial in Thailand (76 provinces) have formulated “Provincial Evacuation Plan” which iscorresponding to types of threatening disaster within the provinces. Besides, each province isobliged to conduct evacuation drill at least twice a year.

4.8 Inventory of countered disaster resources
Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation has initiated the computerized
inventory of various categories of disaster management-related equipments and supplies
belonging to all relevant government agencies, NGOs, private enterprises and of thefoundations nation-wide to be used in planning and availability in the wake of disaster.

Thailand Country Profiles 201219

5. Budget Size on National Level
Year

THB

USD(ml)JPN(ml)2003

1,066,412,900

35.02

2,797

2004

1,312,578,500

43.10

3,443

2005

1,685,362,700

55.34

4,421

2006

2,437,850,700

80.06

6,395

2007

1,948,805,800

64.00

5,112

2008

2,184,972,800

71.75

5,734

2009

2,315,783,900

76.05

6,074

2010

2,541,163,000

83.45

6,666

2011

2,541,163,300

83.45

6,666

2012

3,918,637,000

128.6910,279Source: DDPM (1 USD = 30.45 THB, 100JPN= 38.12 THB)

6. Progress of the Implementation of Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA)The progress on implementation of Hyogo Framework for action (HFA) 2005 – 2015:
Building the resilience of Nations and Communities to Disasters. To achieve the goal of HFA is“sustainable reduction of disaster losses, in lives and in social, economic and environmental
assets.” In adopting the Hyogo Framework, Thai government; DDPM committed to five priorities
for action; sets out the required actions – collectively known as “ disaster risk reduction” –measures that be continuously implemented in order to achieve resilience to future hazards.
Thailand had submitted its national progress report on the implementation of the HFA on
April 05, 2011. Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation is the National Focal Point for
the HFA and it coordinates implementation within the country.
The following is a summary of National progress report on the implementation of the
Hyogo framework for Action (2009-2011), reported by Department of Disaster Prevention and
Mitigation.
Outcomes for 2007-2009
Area 1 The more effectiv e integration of disaster risk considerations into sustainable
development policies, planning and programming at all levels, with a special emphasis on
disaster prevention, mitigation, preparedness and vulnerability reduction.
Outcomes:
Disaster risk reduction is being adopted and integrated into national development plans.
The DRR is being incorporated in the strategy of managing natural resources and environment
towards sustainability under the 11th National Economic and Social Development Plan 20122016, which is going to be the framework for medium term national development towards thevision of “A Happy Society with Equity, Fairness, and Resilience”. The plan provides guideline
for natural disaster preparedness, including hazard mapping at national, regional, and provincial
level and prioritization of identified hazards, in order to develop proper preventive and mitigating
structural and non-structural measures with the emphasis on both social and economic aspects.
Area 2 The development and strengthening of institutions, mechanisms and capacities
at all levels, in particular at the community level, that can systematically contribute to building
resilience to hazards.
Outcomes:
Existing mechanisms stated in the national disaster prevention and mitigation plan 20102014 are being adopted and executed in a more integrated and holistic fashion in order to createand strengthen disaster warning and assessment networks, as well as to encourage people’s
participation in disaster reduction activities at all levels. In the mean time, the new frameworks
Thailand Country Profiles 201220

and mechanisms are going to support cap acity development of the existing mechanisms on aregular basis. This is to ensure the creation of “A Happy Society with Equity, Fairness, andResilience”.
Area 3 The systematic incorporation of risk reduction approaches into the design andimplementation of emergency preparedness, response and recovery programmes in thereconstruction of affected communities.
Outcomes:
National risk reduction and risk management frameworks are translated into action at
provincial and local level through a series of planning training, and a periodical plan monitoringand evaluation. In parallel with plan translation at local level, every risk prone village are being
educated and trained using community-based disaster risk management approach (CBDRM) toenhance those villagers’ capacity in properly handling with local hazards and disasters before
outside assistance arrives. Based on each community’s cultural, social, and economic structure,
the risk prone community is going to have its own disaster prevention and mitigation action plan
which includes its hazards map, risks assessment, organizational structure, warning system andprotocols, and drill procedures.
Priority for action 1: Ensure that disaster risk reduction is a national and a local priority
with a strong institutional basis for implementation.

Core Indicator
1. National policy and legal framework fordisaster risk reduction exists withdecentralised responsibilities andcapacities at all levels.
2. Dedicated and adequate resources areavailable to implement disaster risk
reduction plans and activities
at all administrative levels
3. Community Participation anddecentralisation is ensured through thedelegation of authority and resources tolocal levels
4. A national multi sectoral platform fordisaster risk reduction is functioning.

Level of
Progressachieved
4

3

4

4

Description
Substantial achievement attained but withrecognized limitations in key aspects, suchas financial resources and/ or operational
capacities
Institutional commitment attained, butachievements are neither comprehensive
nor substantial
Substantial achievement attained but withrecognized limitations in key aspects, suchas financial resources and/ or operational
capacities
Substantial achievement attained but withrecognized limitations in key aspects, suchas financial resources and/ or operational
capacities

Priority for action 2 : Identify, assess and monitor disaster risks and enhance early warning
Level ofCore Indicator
Progress
Description
achieved
1. National and local risk assessments
3
Institutional commitment attained, but
based on hazard data and vulnerability
achievements are neither comprehensive
information are available and include risk
nor substantial
assessments for key sectors.
2. Systems are in place to monitor, archive3
Institutional commitment attained, but
and disseminate data on key hazards andachievements are neither comprehensive
vulnerabilities
nor substantial
3. Early warning systems are in place for
3
Institutional commitment attained, but
all major hazards, with outreach toachievements are neither comprehensive
communities.
nor substantial
4. National and local risk assessments take3
Institutional commitment attained, but
account of regional / trans boundary risks,achievements are neither comprehensivewith a view to regional cooperation on risk
nor substantial
reduction.
Thailand Country Profiles 201221

Priority for action 3: Use knowledge, innovation and education to build a culture ofsafety and resilience at all levels

Core Indicator
1. Relevant information on disasters isavailable and accessible at all levels, to all
stakeholders (through networks,
development of information sharing
systems etc)
2. School curricula, education material andrelevant trainings include disaster risk
reduction and recovery concepts andpractices.
3. Research methods and tools for multirisk assessments and cost benefit analysis
are developed and strengthened.
4. Countrywide public awareness strategy
exists to stimulate a culture of disaster
resilience, with outreach to urban and ruralcommunities.

Level of
Progressachieved
4

Description
Substantial achievement attained but withrecognized limitations in key aspects, suchas financial resources and/ or operational
capacities

3

Institutional commitment attained, butachievements are neither comprehensive
nor substantial

4

Substantial achievement attained but withrecognized limitations in key aspects, suchas financial resources and/ or operational
capacities
Substantial achievement attained but withrecognized limitations in key aspects, suchas financial resources and/ or operational
capacities

4

Priority for action 4: Reduce the underlying risk factors

Core Indicator
1. Disaster risk reduction is an integral
objective of environment related policies
and plans, including for land use natural
resource management and adaptation toclimate change.
2. Social development policies and plans
are being implemented to reduce thevulnerability of populations most at risk.
3. Economic and productive sectorial
policies and plans have been implemented
to reduce the vulnerability of economic
activities
4. Planning and management of humansettlements incorporate disaster risk
reduction elements, including enforcementof building codes.
5. Disaster risk reduction measures areintegrated into post disaster recovery andrehabilitation processes
6. Procedures are in place to assess thedisaster risk impacts of major development
projects, especially infrastructure.

Level of
Progressachieved
4

3

2

4

3

4

Description
Substantial achievement attained but withrecognized limitations in key aspects, suchas financial resources and/ or operational
capacities
Institutional commitment attained, butachievements are neither comprehensive
nor substantial
Some progress, but without systematic
policy and/ or institutional commitment

Substantial achievement attained but withrecognized limitations in key aspects, suchas financial resources and/ or operational
capacities
Institutional commitment attained, butachievements are neither comprehensive
nor substantial
Substantial achievement attained but withrecognized limitations in key aspects, suchas financial resources and/ or operational
capacities

Thailand Country Profiles 201222

Priority for action 5: Strengthen disaster preparedness for effective response at all levels

Core Indicator
1. Strong policy, technical and institutional
capacities and mechanisms for disasterrisk management, with a disaster risk
reduction perspective are in place.
2. Disaster preparedness plans andcontingency plans are in place at alladministrative levels, and regular training
drills and rehearsals are held to test anddevelop disaster response programmes.
3. Financial reserves and contingency
mechanisms are in place to support
effective response and recovery whenrequired.
4. Procedures are in place to exchange
relevant information during hazard eventsand disasters, and to undertake post-event
reviews

Level of
Progressachieved
4

4

Description
Substantial achievement attained but withrecognized limitations in key aspects, suchas financial resources and/ or operational
capacities
Substantial achievement attained but withrecognized limitations in key aspects, suchas financial resources and/ or operational
capacities

5

Comprehensive achievement withsustained commitment and capacities at alllevels4

Substantial achievement attained but withrecognized limitations in key aspects, suchas financial resources and/ or operational
capacities

The Government of Thailand is indeed committed to disaster risk reduction and willcontinue its efforts towards implementing the priority areas of the HFA both at national andinternational levels and acknowledge the ongoing effort by UNISDR to promote and accelerate
the implementation of the HFA.

7. Counterpart of ADRC
Name of Focal Point: Mr. Wiboon Sangaunpong
Position: Director General
Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation ,Ministry of Interior
3/12 U-Thong Nok Road, Dusit, Bangkok 10300 THAILAND
E-mail address: foreign_dpm@yahoo.com
Telephone: +66 2 637 3667
Fax: +66 2 243 5279
Website: www.disaster.go.th

Thailand Country Profiles 201223