Multi-hazard risk assessment of critical coastal infrastructure in the Eastern Economic Corridor of Thailand

Asian countries are facing multiple hazards with higher frequency and intensity. These disasters are damaging to infrastructure and disrupting services. Probability of hazards and their impacts on these critical infrastructures becomes important in order to safeguard the normal functioning of society. The Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) is a special investment zone in the coastal areas of the Chonburi, Rayong and Chachoengsao provinces of Thailand. This research attempts risk assessment of critical infrastructure with a focus on the transport, health and education sectors in relation to floods, cyclones and coastal erosion in the EEC. Identification of key indicators for hazard, exposure, sensitivity and capacity for composite risk assessment of critical infrastructure was the primary consideration for the multi-hazard context. The result shows that districts with a very high risk level are Si Racha (Chonburi) and Ban Chang (Rayong) and associated critical infrastructures. A moderate level of risk is found in Klaeng (Rayong), while Ko Sichang (Chonburi) and Sattahip (Chonburi) are considered low risk. With this knowledge, Laem Chabang Port and U-Tapao Airport are in very high-risk zones, whereas Map Taphut Port, situated in Muang Rayong, has a high level of risk. Further, available risk information provides an opportunity for efficient allocation and prioritization of resources for risk mitigation measures.