Abstract:
This paper reviews rainwater harvesting systems used for potable water supply in Thailand, its
implementation, socio-economic aspects, operation and maintenance and water quality issues. Rainwater
harvesting has become popular in rural areas of Thailand because of inaccessibility and unavailability of piped
water supply. Rainwater storage vessels commonly used in Thailand are pots, jars and tanks. Implementation
of the rainwater harvesting program in Thailand is undertaken at several levels: by individual households, by
village councils, by external agencies e.g. NGOs and by government. Review of operational aspects revealed
neglect of community rainwater jars with intermittent use particularly those in schools and mosquito breeding in
rain jars. The quality of stored rain water, though unable to meet WHO drinking water standards, is better than
most of the traditional water resources in rural areas. Analysis of rainwater jars and tanks revealed that
pathogen contamination was slight and can be improved through hygienic collection and handling. Initiatives
taken by NGOs and supported by the Thai government has brought about a dramatic difference to potable
water supply for the rural population, particularly on the north-east Thailand. The rapid development of
rainwater harvesting in Thailand can be attributed to several factors including quality, taste and clarity of
rainwater, availability of cheap materials and skilled artisans and a pool of indigenous engineers, technicians
and administrators committed to rural development programs.
