21 years of the tsunami: lessons from the catastrophe for our future!

21 years of the tsunami: lessons from the catastrophe for our future!

It's hard to believe that 21 years have passed since the devastating tsunami hit Thailand's Andaman coast. On the occasion of this commemoration, สุวิทย์ คุณกิตติ, former Deputy Prime Minister, vividly recalls the tragedies and lessons of the catastrophic event that claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands on December 26, 2004. The region around Takua Pa in Phang Nga Province was particularly affected at the time. On Facebook he shared his experiences about coordinating the helpers and the challenges that had to be overcome in the first days after the disaster. Over 64 bodies were found on the first evening alone, and a relief operation headquarters was set up in the district chief's office, underscoring the efficiency of the rescue operations. Diebetter.co.th reports that the operations were organized in seven sectors, using current aerial photographs to precisely determine the area of ​​operations.

After the tsunami, a number of lessons were learned that are still of central importance today. The former prime minister highlighted the importance of ensuring rapid reporting of natural disasters, as well as the need for regular training for the population and officials. In a world where disasters are becoming increasingly common, preparing for such tragedies is essential. Unfortunately, even 21 years after the tragic events, he still sees no noticeable progress in these areas.

Role of the community

A crucial aspect of disaster preparedness is active community involvement. This is also highlighted by another source, environman.co.th. Preparation for natural disasters should not only depend on technological means, but rather on local knowledge and community connectivity. Mr Chob Tabthong, a 68-year-old local resident, recalls that during the 2004 tsunami, no one was familiar with the term "tsunami"; people were unable to correctly assess the dangers. Together with Ms. Narumol Naka, 48, he emphasizes the need to strengthen disaster preparedness in schools and to train children and their families to be prepared in the event of an emergency.

Although the Thai government has enacted laws to improve disaster management since the events of 2004, there has often been insufficient focus on supporting vulnerable groups in communities. Strong Community-Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM) could help close this gap. Activities include risk analyses, the formation of disaster response teams and the creation of emergency plans. It also emphasizes that preparation for various natural hazards, not just tsunamis, should be an integral part of the strategy.

Global collaboration

At the global level, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction is supported by many nations, including Thailand. Loud World Vision Thailand to develop disaster risk reduction strategies based on the specific needs of communities. The goal is to integrate disaster management as a core policy response and empower communities to respond and recover successfully in times of crisis.

Initiatives such as the ASEAN Safe Schools Initiative and the development of risk maps are already in the starting blocks. Through training for students and regular exercises, children should learn how they should behave in emergencies. Close collaboration between schools, communities and local authorities could, in the long term, lead to strengthening resilience to natural disasters.

The memory of the tsunami and its lessons remain relevant, calling on us all to take the right steps to improve safety standards in our communities. So the loss that this tragedy has brought us can perhaps lead to a valuable learning process.