A STUDY ON THE DISASTER MANAGEMENT CAPACITY OF SURAT THANI MUNICIPALITY

Abstract

The purposes of this research are as follows: 1. To study the capacity of disaster management in Surat Thani Municipality. 2. To analyze the consistency of disaster risk reduction operations in Surat Thani Municipality according to the Sendai Framework, in relation to Surat Thani Province and the country. 3. To propose guidelines for increasing the efficiency of disaster management in Surat Thani Municipality. This research is qualitative research employs document analysis and in-depth interviews with key informants, including representatives from Surat Thani Municipality, personnel from disaster prevention and mitigation departments, and experts in disaster management, public policy, and local administration.

The results of the analysis showed that: 1) The study of the capacity of disaster management in Surat Thani Municipality revealed that the municipality can manage disasters within its area. However, due to the decentralization of authority from the central government to local administrative organizations, there are limitations in decision-making regarding disaster management, both in terms of organizational structure and resources. Such resources include personnel, budget, and equipment. As a result, Surat Thani Municipality faces constraints in preparing for and responding to the needs of the local population during disasters. 2) The analysis of the consistency of disaster risk reduction operations in Surat Thani Municipality, in alignment with the Sendai Framework, found that the municipality’s efforts are generally in line with the framework. These efforts include building understanding and mechanisms for managing disaster risks, as well as investing in and developing capacity for disaster preparedness and recovery. These efforts are implemented under disaster prevention and mitigation plans at all levels, ensuring multi-sectoral collaboration to drive disaster risk reduction by the framework. 3) The proposed guidelines for improving the disaster management efficiency of Surat Thani Municipality suggest that the area needs to improve its work processes and resource allocation to enhance the effectiveness of disaster management. This would enable better disaster preparedness and response, ensuring consistency with long-term international objectives.