5.1. Classes of Built Environment

And then we come to the Ayutthaya which has been an ancient kingdom... called Ayutthaya kingdom or Siam.

Ayutthaya was founded in 1351 by King U Thong to escape a smallpox outbreak. It became the capital of his kingdom, which was part of a larger entity known as Siam. The city, located at the confluence of several rivers, reflects significant historical and cultural narratives, particularly around the story of Rama.

Imagine a city becoming a refuge during a health crisis, similar to how modern cities might serve as safe havens during natural disasters. Ayutthaya's establishment under dire circumstances illustrates how history often shapes cities.

This particular historic city has some religious meanings... Outstanding universal value where we talk about OUV.

Ayutthaya is not only a historic city but also recognized for its global significance. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it emphasizes the value of preserving cultural heritage, representing itself as a historical jewel with rich religious and cultural integrity.

Think of a treasure chest filled with unique items from history. Each item tells a story, much like the buildings and monuments in Ayutthaya convey the culture and beliefs of its time.

So I am going to refer about mainly two to three important documents... understands managing the flood risk.

Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) is crucial for managing the impacts of flooding, especially in culturally significant areas like Ayutthaya. Traditional FRA focuses largely on quantitative data, assessing financial impacts and losses to properties instead of considering the complete spectrum of intangible losses, such as cultural identity and heritage.

It's like measuring the cost of damages in a house fire but ignoring the memories and feelings lost with the items destroyed. A complete assessment must consider both tangible and intangible losses.

There is also the qualitative aspects... cultural vulnerability.

In addition to quantifiable damages, a holistic approach to flood risk includes qualitative assessments. This involves understanding physical and social vulnerabilities, ensuring cultural factors are integrated into risk perceptions. Different impacts on communities are recognized, emphasizing the need to consider cultural resilience in disaster assessments.

Imagine a community where people share strong cultural ties. When thinking about risk, it’s not just about buildings but also about how those buildings foster community identity, much like a family home that holds cherished memories together.

So now when you look at the Ayutthaya island which is located in the urban area... based on and they are subjected mostly to high risk.

Research conducted on Ayutthaya employs various methodologies, combining scientific data, like hydrological models, with community perspectives. This includes understanding how the city's geography influences flood risks and developing vulnerability classifications for different types of infrastructure within the urban area.

Imagine a group project where students combine hard data, like math statistics, with personal experiences narrating what community means. This blended approach provides a richer understanding of the environment and risks involved in their project.

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