Bangkok: The Royal Irrigation Department (RID) is taking measures to stabilize water levels in the Chao Phraya River by reducing water discharge from the Bhumibol and Sirikit Dams. This initiative is part of a larger effort to manage water resources effectively during the concluding phase of the rainy season.
According to Thai News Agency, RID has collaborated with various agencies to address water management challenges. The department has ordered a reduction in water discharge to mitigate downstream impacts on the Chao Phraya Dam. The strategy includes increasing the capacity of the Pasak Dam and coordinating efforts in the Northeast to enhance water discharge from the Ubonrat Dam.
Mr. Paitoon Kengkarnchang, Deputy Secretary-General of the Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR), shared insights from a recent meeting with key water agencies. The discussion highlighted the influence of Typhoon Ragasa, which has intensified the monsoon over Thailand, leading to increased rainfall in specific provinces, including Mae Hong Son, Tak, Bueng Kan, Amnat Charoen, and Ubon Ratchathani.
Currently, water is being released from the Chao Phraya Dam at a rate of 2,200 cubic meters per second, affecting downstream areas in Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, and Pathum Thani provinces. To alleviate this, water release from the Bhumibol and Sirikit Dams will be reduced gradually until September 26th. This approach aims to manage the flow through Station C2 in Nakhon Sawan Province and maintain the Chao Phraya Dam's discharge rate throughout late September.
The Pasak Jolasid Dam, currently at 76% capacity, will see an increased water discharge rate to maintain safe water levels. This adjustment could result in overflowing in certain low-lying areas, including Ton Tan Subdistrict and Saeng Phan Subdistrict in Saraburi Province, as well as Kaeng Suea Ten Subdistrict in Lopburi Province.
In the Chi River Basin, the Ubonrat Dam is at 78% capacity, necessitating a rise in water discharge to 35 million cubic meters per day. This measure aims to facilitate water flow into the Mekong River through Ubon Ratchathani Province, minimizing public impact.
Mr. Kengkarnchang expressed optimism about the situation, emphasizing that proactive measures are in place to avoid a repeat of the 2011 flood crisis. The focus remains on navigating through late September and early October to ensure a gradual improvement in conditions.