Impacts Of The National Economic And Social Development Plan On Songkhla Lake Basin Development Thailand

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to explore the impacts of Thailand's eleven National Economic and Social Development Plans (NESDP or NP1) on the development, natural resources, and environment of the Songkhla Lake Basin (SLB), Thailand, and to propose policy recommendations for this development. Data on development in the SLB were collected through literature reviews and through four focus group discussions for related stakeholders in the four sub-basins. Our results showed that the focus of development changed from economic development in NP1 through NP7 to a new model of holistic "people-centered development" with an emphasis on sustainability in NP8 through NP11. During this time (1961-2013), economic development has progressed in the SLB. For instance, 443 irrigation projects were developed to support expanded rice paddy fields, the area of shrimp farms increased to a current total of 60,174 rais, rubber plantations encroached into 30% of the total watershed area, and the number of factories increased to 2,748. This increased development has led to water pollution, sedimentation in Songkhla Lake, degradation of the watershed, and the depletion of fishery resources, requiring urgent remedial action. We recommend that mechanisms are provided for the public to fully participate in formulating basin development plans by, for example, establishing a Songkhla Lake Basin Development Institute and conducting a basin-level strategic environmental assessment.