Bangkok: The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment is calling on Thai citizens to participate in the "Conservation and Development of Rivers, Canals, and Streams" event, part of National River, Canal, and Stream Conservation and Development Day 2026. The event, themed "Flow with the Future: Continuing the Legacy of Waterways, Creating a Sustainable Future," seeks to engage the public in preserving the country's water resources.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry is spearheading this initiative through the Department of Water Resources. The event, held at Pathumwananurak Park in Bangkok, was inaugurated by Mr. Suchart Chomklin, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, alongside Mr. Teerachun Boonsith, Director-General of the Department of Water Resources. The gathering included representatives from government bodies, the private sector, and educational institutions. The theme underscores the importance of preserving traditional Thai water management wisdom while integrating innovative practices.
Mr. Suchart emphasized the continuous organization of this annual event by the Department of Water Resources, highlighting the significance of Pathumwananurak Park as an urban green space with environmentally friendly features. These include a pond and wastewater treatment system aligned with the concept of Nature-based Solutions (NbS). The park serves multiple purposes, such as environmental protection, enhancing community lifestyles, and providing a public space for the local population.
The importance of National River, Canal, and Stream Conservation and Development Day lies in raising public awareness about the critical need to maintain clean water resources. Mr. Suchart noted that neglecting these resources could lead to severe challenges in restoring them. The Ministry is actively working with related agencies to educate the public and foster a sense of shared responsibility for water conservation, particularly among the youth. Efforts are also underway to address the impact of mining activities on rivers in the northern region, with an urgent focus on cultivating responsibility for preserving waterways.
The management of water resources is a collective responsibility involving all agencies under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. This encompasses various departments, including the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, and the Pollution Control Department. Mr. Suchart highlighted the need for stringent enforcement against improper disposal of electronic waste to prevent contamination of water bodies.
Mr. Teerachun Boonsit provided historical context, recalling Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn's 1994 waterway inspection, which led to the establishment of the Conservation and Development Day. The event aims to promote public awareness of the value of waterways, crucial to Thai culture and life.
The day's activities featured a seminar titled "Flow Talk 2026: Revitalizing Waterways with Future Innovations," exhibitions honoring the Princess's contributions, and a campaign walk to raise awareness about water conservation. Across 31 locations nationwide, the Department of Water Resources coordinated activities to encourage community participation in water resource conservation and restoration.
The Minister reiterated the Ministry's commitment to promoting sustainable water resource management. He directed the Department of Water Resources to classify water sources based on quality and involve community volunteers in monitoring efforts to ensure sustainable management practices.