Effects of Urbanization Changing on Roles of Subdistrict Headman and Village Headman in Phra Pradaeng District, Samutprakan Province

Abstract

Abstract

            The objectives of this research are (1) to study factors influencing on urbanization changing in  Phra Pradaeng District, Samutprakan Province, (2) to investigate effects of urbanization changing on roles of sub-district headman and village headman in Phra Pradaeng District, Samutprakan Province and (3) to propose a guideline to change roles of subdistrict headman and village headman in urban areas.

This research collected data from literature review and interviews of important persons including Phra Pradaeng Chief District Officer, Chief Administrator of the Subdistrict Administrative Organization (SAO), Chief Executive of the SAO, subdistrict headman, village headman, former subdistrict headman, former village headman and people (total 21 interviewers). Then, the data were analyzed using a content analysis method and a descriptive analysis method.

          This research found that (1) the urbanization in Phra Pradaeng District, Samutprakan Province was caused by urbanization of Bangkok that has expanded into the metropolitan area. The original community changed into a community of house estate and tall building as well as agricultural areas turned into industrial areas. The immigrants moved to be a new group of residents in Phra Pradaeng District. (2) The urbanization in Phra Pradaeng District, Samutprakan Province caused overlapping of authority on responsibility area and government organization. Moreover, there was overlapping of individual rights and government organization resulting in reduction of role and authority of subdistrict headman and village headman as Local Administration Act. For example, the SAO established in B.E. 2542 to do some part of subdistrict headman and village headman’s works including various registration (Birth Certificate, residence certificate and death certificate) and tax collection. (3) Subdistrict headmen and village headmen should improve working style depend on the local areas such as applying technology and social media to communicate or coordinate with people in the area.