The cooperation in the management of Pattaya City Special Local Administrative Organization

A case study of wastewater treatment in Koh Larn Area

Abstract

This research studied the wastewater treatment in the special local administrative organization, Pattaya City, focusing on the Koh Larn area. A qualitative research method was used, including document analysis and semi-structured interviews. These included 3 executives and staff members from Pattaya City, 6 restaurant and accommodation business operators, and 10 members of the local community. The study found that management practices aligned with the 20-Year National Strategy (2018–2037) and the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2023–2027). It also followed the POSDCORB management principles of Luther Gulick. Success resulted from cooperation between government and private sectors in the area. However, according to the Coronavirus pandemic, problems in wastewater treatment were found. Moreover, the issue of wastewater management is interconnected with several other challenges, including improper waste disposal, unauthorized access to public areas, a lack of experts with specialized skills, and a shortage of designated wastewater disposal facilities. Only two wastewater treatment ponds are designated for use by establishments and restaurants, not for households. Furthermore, other significant problems included the business growth from tourism and communication in this area. To solve these problems, Pattaya City must implement more dynamic and cooperative management. Legal enforcement should be strengthened to control waste volumes effectively. The dedicated sanitation engineering division should be assigned direct responsibility. Clear policies for direct supervision and increasing the number of wastewater treatment facilities are essential to ensure adequate capacity for the area.