Enhancing the transboundary aquifer development and management under future climate, landuse and demographic change : the case of Khorat aquifer system in Thailand and Lao PDR | |
| Author | Talampas, Wendell Daaca |
| Call Number | AIT Diss. no.WM-25-02 |
| Subject(s) | Groundwater--Thailand--Management Groundwater--Laos--Management Aquifers--Borderlands--Southeast Asia Hydrologic models |
| Note | A dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Water Engineering and Management |
| Publisher | Asian Institute of Technology |
| Abstract | The Khorat Plateau Transboundary Aquifer, shared by Thailand and Lao PDR, is essential for sustaining water demands across multiple sectors. However, governance asymmetries, uncoordinated management, and future climate and land use changes pose risks to groundwater sustainability. Groundwater governance disparities present challenges for transboundary cooperation. Thailand's structured regulations contrast with Lao PDR's limited monitoring capacity, leading to inconsistencies in groundwater management. Strengthening institutional frameworks and bilateral agreements is critical to ensuring sustainable use. Stakeholder consultations underscore the necessity of collaborative data-sharing mechanisms and harmonized policies. Projected climate change scenarios indicate increased variability in precipitation and temperature patterns, which could influence groundwater recharge processes. Changes in recharge dynamics may exacerbate existing seasonal water availability challenges, particularly in areas with high groundwater dependency. The integration of GCMs in this study underscores the importance of climate-resilient groundwater policies that account for future hydrological shifts. Urbanization scenarios further emphasize the growing pressures on groundwater resources. Expanding urban areas and increased impervious surfaces are expected to reduce infiltration, heightening reliance on groundwater during dry periods. High urbanization scenarios pose significant risks of over-extraction, land subsidence, and declining water quality. Sustainable land use planning and managed aquifer recharge initiatives are necessary to mitigate these impacts. Finally, this research calls for a forward-looking groundwater governance strategy that incorporates climate change adaptation, equitable transboundary cooperation, and sustainable urban planning. Among the key recommendations, establishing a Bilateral Groundwater Management Agreement stands out as a crucial measure to enhance cooperation, formalize legal frameworks, and promote sustainable aquifer management. Strengthening institutional capacity, integrating climate-resilient policies, and leveraging international best practices will be essential for safeguarding groundwater resources in the Khorat Plateau under future climatic and developmental challenges. |
| Year | 2025 |
| Type | Dissertation |
| School | School of Engineering and Technology |
| Department | Department of Civil and Infrastucture Engineering (DCIE) |
| Academic Program/FoS | Water Engineering and Management (WM) |
| Chairperson(s) | Shrestha, Sangam |
| Examination Committee(s) | Shanmugam, Mohana Sundaram;Kuo Chieh Chao;Natthachet Tangdamrongsub;Khadka, Dibesh |
| Scholarship Donor(s) | University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines – Cagayan de Oro (USTP-CDO) |
| Degree | Thesis (Ph.D.) - Asian Insitute of Technology, 2025 |