ID :
173277
Tue, 04/05/2011 - 15:02
Auther :
Shortlink :
http://m.oananews.org//node/173277
The shortlink copeid
Thai Mineral Resources Department voices concerns about possible landslides in North
BANGKOK, April 5 (TNA) - The Thai Mineral Resources Department has announced plans to cope with potential landslides in the North and the West during the rainy season in the next few months.
Adisak Khaimuk, director-general of the Mineral Resources Department, said landslides were possible in 6,450 villages in 51 provinces and the landslides that happened in the South due to excessive rains in the summer indicated that the problem of landslides is expanding. He also pointed out that there were insufficient warning systems, which also had to cover areas located downstream. His department will seek satellite photos from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency to update landslide-prone areas and call for the immediate installation of additional warning systems especially in risky locations in the North and the West where rainy season will commence in May.
The department will increase surveillance networks and carry out warning drills involving people and monks in about 6,000 risky areas from 64 provinces.
The department will also try to reduce landslides by pushing for plant control on mountain slopes where there shouldn't be short-rooted plants like rubber and corn plants, which could destabilize soil. The department will also oppose road projects on mountains that would increase the risk of landslides.
Regarding earthquake threats, the Mineral Resources Department is confident that the Mae Chan fault line in Thailand will not cause a powerful earthquake. However, a moderate quake slightly above 5 on the Richter scale is possible. The department is watching out for signs of such a quake. (TNA)
Adisak Khaimuk, director-general of the Mineral Resources Department, said landslides were possible in 6,450 villages in 51 provinces and the landslides that happened in the South due to excessive rains in the summer indicated that the problem of landslides is expanding. He also pointed out that there were insufficient warning systems, which also had to cover areas located downstream. His department will seek satellite photos from the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency to update landslide-prone areas and call for the immediate installation of additional warning systems especially in risky locations in the North and the West where rainy season will commence in May.
The department will increase surveillance networks and carry out warning drills involving people and monks in about 6,000 risky areas from 64 provinces.
The department will also try to reduce landslides by pushing for plant control on mountain slopes where there shouldn't be short-rooted plants like rubber and corn plants, which could destabilize soil. The department will also oppose road projects on mountains that would increase the risk of landslides.
Regarding earthquake threats, the Mineral Resources Department is confident that the Mae Chan fault line in Thailand will not cause a powerful earthquake. However, a moderate quake slightly above 5 on the Richter scale is possible. The department is watching out for signs of such a quake. (TNA)
