Dams and Rivers Prepped for Monsoon Rains with Accelerated Water Drainage

Bangkok: The Royal Irrigation Department (RID) has announced plans to accelerate water drainage from dams and rivers in preparation for the impending monsoon trough expected from September 4th to 11th. This strategic move aims to mitigate potential flooding as the monsoon trough is predicted to bring significant rainfall to the lower northern and central regions of Thailand. According to Thai News Agency, the Sirikit Dam will notably increase its discharge rate by 50 million cubic meters per day starting on September 4th, while the Chao Phraya Dam is set to gradually increase its discharge to 1,500 cubic meters per second. This initiative is part of a broader effort coordinated by the Office of National Water Resources (ONWR) to adjust water management plans in anticipation of the monsoon's impact across various regions. Recent storms, including Wipha, Kajiki, and Nongfa, have already filled many large dams, particularly Sirikit Dam in Uttaradit Province, to 85 percent capacity. With inflows on the rise fro m main rivers, tributaries, and water diversions, there is a pressing need to create capacity for the anticipated additional rainfall. Currently, the Sirikit Dam releases water at a rate of 25 million cubic meters per day, a figure that will double to 50 million cubic meters per day from September 4th to 7th. This measure, agreed upon by the RID and the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), is crucial for accommodating the new water volume. Mr. Surasee Kittimondol, Secretary-General of the ONWR, highlighted that water from the North is expected to reach the Chao Phraya Dam by mid-September. The anticipated heavy rainfall in the Chao Phraya Basin necessitates a controlled increase in the dam's discharge rate to prevent excessive flooding, particularly during high tides and repeated rainfalls. While the increased drainage is likely to affect low-lying areas in Ang Thong and Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya provinces, it is considered a vital step to mitigate overall risk. The RID is tasked with keepin g the public informed ahead of these changes. To enhance water management, the ONWR has set up a "Temporary Frontline Water Management Center" in flood-prone areas of the Central Region. This center is designed to monitor real-time conditions, coordinate drainage efforts, and provide timely support to affected communities. Mr. Surasee stressed the importance of integrated water management across the entire Chao Phraya River Basin, including its tributaries, to minimize damage and ensure effective control from upstream to downstream areas.