The Capability of Community Leader in Handling With Flood in Maha Sarakham Shee River Area

Abstract

Background and Aims: Climate change has led to an increase in flood disasters, particularly in the Chi River Basin, Maha Sarakham Province. The leadership capacity of community leaders plays a crucial role in flood disaster management. This study aims to: (1) investigate the problems and solutions for flood disaster management in the Chi River Basin communities during the 2021 flood; (2) assess the level of preparedness for flood disaster management; and (3) explore collaboration strategies with community leaders in flood disaster management in the Chi River Basin, Maha Sarakham Province.

Methodology: Qualitative research: In-depth interviews were conducted with 30 key informants, including community leaders and affected residents. Data were synthesized, interpreted, and analyzed descriptively. Quantitative research: A questionnaire survey was conducted with 400 respondents, selected through non-probability sampling. The questionnaire included both closed-ended and open-ended questions, with an item-objective congruence (IOC) index ranging from 0.67 to 1.00 and a reliability coefficient of 0.941. Descriptive statistics, including frequency distribution, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, were used for data analysis.

Results: The study found that: (1) In terms of disaster response issues and solutions, the community faces challenges in: (1.1) Infrastructure and resource constraints; (1.2) Early warning systems and evacuation procedures; (1.3) Management and coordination; and (1.4) Economic, social, and quality of life impacts, (2) The overall level of preparedness for managing flood disasters was found to be high ( = 3.85). The community’s strengths include having sufficient disaster response equipment and well-developed emergency plans. Specifically, the disaster response equipment received the highest rating ( = 3.89), followed by the community’s plan development and assistance procedures ( = 3.87), and then the high population density within the community ( = 3.86). However, issues remain regarding the effectiveness of the early warning system and limitations in coordination among relevant agencies, And 3) In exploring collaborative approaches with community leaders in managing flood disasters, the study proposed several development strategies, including improving the early warning system by integrating technology, providing advanced disaster response training for community leaders, and promoting a collaborative network among government agencies, the private sector, and the community to enhance disaster management effectiveness and reduce long-term impacts on the population.

Conclusion: Flood disaster management in the Chi River Basin, Maha Sarakham Province, requires addressing key issues such as infrastructure, early warning systems, evacuation procedures, management, coordination, and socio-economic impacts. The level of preparedness was found to be high, with sufficient disaster response resources and planning. To enhance disaster management effectiveness, technological advancements in warning systems, leadership training, and multi -sector collaboration should be promoted to reduce long-term impacts on the community.