Participatory Communication in Solving the Water Pollution Problem of Siwa Phasawat Canal in Samut Sakhon Province

Abstract

            The objectives of this research were to study 1) the context of participatory communications to build public participation in solving the water pollution problem of Siwa Phasawat Canal in Samut Sakhon Province; 2) the communications process; and                                      3) approaches to develop the communications. This was a qualitative research based on in-depth interviews with 14 purposively selected key informants from among people with an important role in communicating to build public participation in solving the water pollution problem in the study area. They consisted of two civilian government employees, one military government employee, one academic, two people from the local administrative organization, one local leader, one head of a government agency, two people from the private sector, one person from civil society, and three representative local residents. A semi-structured interview form was used. Data were analyzed by forming conclusions. The results showed that

            1) the context of communications was neighborhood meetings, coffee house forum, telephone conversations and messaging, public address system announcements, mass media, conversations in door to door visits, word of mouth/grapevine communications, and social media, especially the “Rak Khlong Siwa Phasawat” Line group.

            2) As for the process of communication, the message senders were residents articulating the problem and people from the government sector driving approaches to solve the problem. Message receivers were representatives of government agencies who listened to grievances about the problem and discussed ways to solve it and local residents who acknowledged the government sector’s work methods and participated in projects and activities. Public relations channels for raising awareness were TV, radio, newspapers, the public address system, and social media. The results of communication were increased knowledge and understanding, adjustment of attitudes to be more positive, and voluntary participation in the activities on the part of the public.

            3) Approaches to develop better communications are aimed at increasing understanding among two target groups: the citizens and the government sector. For the government sector, seminars should be held to upgrade the knowledge of related personnel and to improve their ability to manage problems. For the local citizens, training sessions should be organized to impart knowledge and create understanding about solving the problem. Citizens should be encouraged to join working teams to participate in every step of the problem solving process. They should be made aware of the benefits of participation and management, and should be invited to participate in volunteer activities. A working team should be formed with the governor as chairman and this team should drive forward the activities and keep the campaign moving.