Abstract:
The objective of this thesis is to apply the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in Chanthaburi Provincial Structure Planning. The works covers (I) the study and analysis of physical, economic, population, social and basic service conditions of the area ; (II) identification of its problems, constraints, and potentials; and (III) preparation of structure plan for the province. Basic information on physical, economic, social, basic service, and population conditions are stored in a GIS database. The data are then retrieved for analysis using the overlay technique available on the ARC/INFO 3.4D software. The results of the study are presented in maps and reports. It is found that the topological condition of Chanthaburi comprises mountains, uplands, rolling plains and coastal area. These variety and plentiful natural resources are significant to economic development of the province. Those areas have been utilized for various activities, i.e. agriculture, which have caused changes of landuse pattern and deforestation; and coastal aquaculture, which have affected the coastal environment, which, in turn, have caused problems relating to natural resources and other development activities. The analysis reveals that most problems within the area are relevant to the loss of natural resources and environment deteriorations, especially forest deterioration and water lackage in dry season. Therefore, it is recommended that the development of the study area should be emphasized on rehabilitation of the environment and natural resources, especially the forest and water resources. The potentials and constraints of the area should also be talking into consideration. The proposed structure plan of Chanthaburi comprises 4 major plans: Landuse plan, urban system plan, transportation development plan, and tourism development plan. The study also reveals that application of the GIS for spatial development planning is effective and preferable. However, the capability of the systems should be thoroughly studies and be appropriately applied by the user in order to make use of the systems for planning tasks.