Royal Irrigation Department Launches 2026/27 Dry Season Water Management Plan
Thailand's Royal Irrigation Department has initiated its dry season water management strategy following the end of the rainy season, with current reservoir levels at 76% capacity.
The Royal Irrigation Department (RID) has officially commenced its water management plan for the 2026/2027 dry season, following the conclusion of the rainy season on October 31. According to Prachachat Business, the four primary dams serving the Chao Phraya River basin currently hold a combined total of 18,936 million cubic meters of water, representing 76% of their total capacity. To ensure sustainable supply, the RID has begun reducing water discharge rates to 700 cubic meters per second. The department is prioritizing water allocation based on essential needs while maintaining strategic reserves to mitigate potential risks associated with dry spells expected between May and July 2027. For residents and travelers, this proactive management is intended to ensure water security for agriculture and consumption throughout the coming months. While the current storage levels are stable, the long-term effectiveness of the plan depends on weather patterns during the mid-2027 transition period. Further updates regarding water usage restrictions or adjustments to discharge rates will be provided by the RID as the dry season progresses. Stakeholders are encouraged to monitor official announcements for any changes in water availability or local infrastructure operations.
