The Ancient Water Management Systems in Thailand

Abstract

Within currently Thailand territory, there were different cultures existed in different periods of time from the north to the south, and from the west to the east. In this paper, we will survey ancient water management systems of each culture in the territory. We will illustrate their function related to ritual and believe as well as for the wellbeing of the community. The cultures that will be surveyed include Dvaravati (Mon), Khmer, Srivijaya, Thai (Sukhothai, Lanna, Ayutthaya, Thonburi and Rattanakosin). From the archaeological, anthropological evident, and geo-informatics related evident, the ancient water structures were always related to 1. Ritual and Believe 2. Wellbeing of the community and 3. Ritual and believe as well as wellbeing of the community. The objective of this study is to learn about the wisdom related to water of each culture, what was their ritual, believe related to water, as well as how the water was managed and utilized by each culture. This is a part of the research project to study the relationship between human and environment in the past. How was the environment modified to fit with human requirement to live? The focus will be on the knowledge and method of water management as well as the relationship of water to the ritual and believe in different period and area in the Mainland Southeast Asia. The area of study will be in the area of Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Currently, there are still the problems exist from the lack of water resources, especially in remote area. The future step of this study is aiming to improve water management system in remote area by revitalizing and utilizing the ancient water management system in the area. The concept of this study is adapted from the late King Rama IX’s royal suggestion to Thai people about the relationship between human and environment in the past. The focus will be on the knowledge and method of water management in different period and area. The plans and suggestions to the local communities will be mutually shared. The outputs will be also used as educational material for young student research program, so that they could learn about their local culture and environment. This will assist the locals and students to learn about their cultural heritage as well as how to prevent flood and drought at present.