Bangkok:The Royal Irrigation Department (RID) is set to manage water resources effectively during the 2026/2027 dry season. Their plan includes ensuring equitable water distribution and monitoring flood-affected areas following the end of the 2026 rainy season.
According to Thai News Agency, the RID aims to allocate water carefully to ensure sufficient supply for all sectors and is increasing water reserves to handle potential dry spells at the beginning of the next rainy season. They are also gradually reducing water release from the Chao Phraya Dam to mitigate impacts on downstream areas, while expediting assistance to the 11 provinces still affected by floods.
The RID has reported that as of November 2, 2026, large and medium-sized reservoirs nationwide hold 63,984 million cubic meters of water, which is 83% of their combined capacity. The four main reservoirs in the Chao Phraya River basin have a combined water volume of 18,936 million cubic meters, or 76% of their capacity. The department's dry season management plan prioritizes water allocation for domestic consumption, ecosystem maintenance, agriculture, and industry.
As part of their strategy, the Royal Irrigation Department is gradually reducing the water discharge through the Chao Phraya Dam to maintain a balanced water management approach in the basin. They continue to address the flooding situation from the previous rainy season and have mobilized resources to assist the remaining affected provinces.
The Smart Water Operations Center of the RID will closely monitor the water situation, rainfall, and weather conditions, particularly the El Niño phenomenon's potential impact on rainfall. The department is committed to adjusting water management plans as necessary and urges all sectors to use water economically to ensure adequate supplies throughout the dry season.