Bangkok:The National Water Resources Management Committee has issued a warning to six provinces situated downstream of the Chao Phraya Dam to brace for an increased water discharge rate of 2,200 cubic meters per second. This measure comes in response to significant rainfall in the Ping River basin, which has caused the water volume at Kamphaeng Phet to surge from 700 to 1,700 cubic meters per second, with additional contributions from the Sakae Krang River basin. Consequently, water levels downstream of the dam are projected to rise by 1.00 to 1.20 meters.
According to Thai News Agency, the National Water Resources Office has released Announcement No. 7/2569 to address the impacts of this water discharge adjustment. The current water flow through station C.2 in Mueang Nakhon Sawan District is between 1,800 and 2,350 cubic meters per second. Efforts are underway to slow water flow upstream of the dam and divert it into irrigation canals on both sides, totaling approximately 500 cubic meters per second.
The increase in water flow is primarily due to heavy rainfall in the Ping River basin, which has intensified the flow through station P.7A in Kamphaeng Phet Province. The combination with water from the Sakae Krang River basin necessitates the increased discharge through the Chao Phraya Dam.
The provinces affected by this development include Chainat, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, and Nonthaburi. Specific districts within these provinces have been alerted to the potential rise in water levels.
The National Water Resources Office has urged related agencies to inspect and repair riverbank embankments, remove water obstructions, and adjust water management strategies from upstream to downstream. It is crucial to synchronize efforts with tidal influences and expedite water drainage to prepare for further heavy rainfall.
Authorities are mobilizing personnel, machinery, and equipment to manage potential flooding. Residents in the affected areas are being notified to ensure they are prepared for timely evacuation if necessary.