Thailand and Myanmar to study water diversion scheme

Thailand and Myanmar to study water diversion scheme

The Department of Water Resources is geared up to open a water diversion route from Myanmar with studies set to begin in September.

Director of the Department of Water Resources Siripong Hungsapruek stated yesterday that a recent meeting between Thai and Myanmar agencies that included representatives of the Royal Irrigation Department, the Energy Generating Authority of Thailand and the Department of East Asian Affairs reanalyzed a framework for cooperation in the development of water resources between the two nations established in 2005.

The gathering also studied a plan to divert water from Myanmar's Sai River into the Northern agricultural region of Thailand, noting that the action would benefit both nations in terms of irrigation and agricultural production.

The joint committee then moved to decide on the details of the Sai River water diversion scheme, proposing three locations where dams would be appropriate. The meeting also noted the need for a flood detection system to be put in place. Studies on the scheme will begin in September and take approximately 18 months.

National News Bureau of Thailand
10 March 2009