Bangkok: The Royal Irrigation Department has announced plans to release 2,000 cubic meters per second through the Chao Phraya Dam, aiming to manage the increasing water levels from the north and mitigate potential downstream impacts. This strategic move accompanies a reduction in the release rate from the Pasak Jolasid Dam to facilitate efficient drainage into the Gulf of Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, the Royal Irrigation Department's Smart Water Operations Center observed a morning water flow of 2,101 cubic meters per second at Station C.2 in Mueang District, Nakhon Sawan Province, with an upward trend. In response, the department had already increased the discharge rate from the Chao Phraya Dam in Chainat Province from 1,900 to 1,950 cubic meters per second the previous night.
Water management strategies upstream of the Chao Phraya Dam involve retaining water in the north and channeling it into the irrigation system based on each canal's capacity. Despite these efforts, rising water volumes are expected to affect low-lying areas upstream of the dam, including Manorom District and Wat Sing District in Chainat Province, as well as Mueang Chainat District.
The department plans to gradually increase the discharge rate from 1,950 to 2,000 cubic meters per second by 3:00 p.m. today, aligning with water volumes in the upper reaches and recent rainfall. This increase is expected to raise floodwater levels in areas outside the dam, such as Khlong Phong Pheng in Ang Thong Province and various subdistricts in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province.
To manage the water traffic in the lower Chao Phraya basin, the department has reduced the discharge from the Pasak Jolasid Dam. This reduction will remain until September 14, 2025, allowing for efficient drainage from the north to the sea. The current water flow into the Pasak Jolasid Dam stands at 375.87 cubic meters per second, with a reservoir capacity of 48.40%.
The Meteorological Department forecasts continued widespread rainfall, especially in central Thailand, due to the monsoon trough and moderate southwest monsoon. The public is advised to closely monitor updates from the Royal Irrigation Department on the water situation.