In a significant stride towards sustainable water management, the Faculty of Engineering at Khon Kaen University has partnered with the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) to launch an innovative “Automated System Supporting Water Management at Ubolratana Dam.” This cutting-edge technology aims to tackle drought and mitigate flood impacts, marking a milestone in environmental management.
On October 28, 2024, a press conference was held at Khon Kaen University to celebrate the successful completion of this groundbreaking research project. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Panitas Sureeyatanapas, Assistant Dean for Graduate Studies and International Relations, announced that the project, led by Assoc. Prof. Kittiwet Kuntiyawichai, received a generous budget of 1,778,963 baht from EGAT. This collaboration underscores the Faculty of Engineering’s commitment to advancing knowledge, research, and innovation for the nation’s sustainable development.
“This achievement demonstrates the project’s success in meeting its objectives,” said Dr. Panitas. “EGAT can now leverage these results to optimize water management at Ubolratana Dam, benefiting society and the public.”
Mr. Channarong Chantamongkol, Director of the Northeastern Hydropower Plant, highlighted the dam’s significance as the largest in the northeastern region, with a capacity of 2,431 million cubic meters. “Given its multipurpose role and the increasing challenges of climate change, effective water management is crucial,” he emphasized. EGAT’s support for this research reflects its dedication to maximizing public benefit while addressing severe climate impacts.
The automated system, completed this year, has already proven its worth during the recent rainy season. It provides a reliable framework for managing water resources efficiently, ensuring that the current reservoir volume of 2,165 million cubic meters—89% of its capacity—meets public needs throughout the dry season and into the next rainy season.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ratchaphon Suntivarakorn, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, expressed gratitude to EGAT for recognizing the importance of this research. “This collaboration is a testament to our shared vision of effective water management that benefits society,” he stated, noting the project’s potential to enhance water management across Thailand’s dams.
Exploring the Automated Water Management System
Assoc. Prof. Kittiwet Kuntiyawichai, Director of the Water Resources and Environmental Engineering Center, explained the system’s capabilities. It prevents water releases below the Lower Rule Curve or above the Upper Rule Curve, reducing risks of future water shortages and downstream flooding.
Over a year of research, the team integrated real-time data from 21 telemetry stations and SCADA systems, along with rainfall forecasts, into the HEC-RTS model using Python programming. This daily automated simulation provides critical insights into water inflow, reservoir levels, and discharge, aiding stakeholders in making informed decisions.
“EGAT users have confirmed the system’s high accuracy in supporting water management decisions,” Dr. Kittiwet noted. A comprehensive user manual ensures operators can utilize the system effectively. Looking ahead, the team hopes to expand research to include the Pak Mun Dam, further enhancing the system’s impact on drought and flood management.
This innovative project not only represents a leap forward in water management technology but also exemplifies the power of collaboration in addressing environmental challenges.
