Agriculture Minister Pushes Nam Lai Reservoir Project for Loei
The Thai government is moving forward with the Nam Lai Reservoir project in Loei province to address chronic water shortages and flooding, with construction planned for 2571–2576 to serve over 17,000 farming families.
Agriculture Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced the government's commitment to building the Nam Lai Reservoir in Loei province following a meeting with provincial and local officials on August 6, 2569. Loei province faces challenges with rapid water runoff during the rainy season, causing flash floods and forest runoff, while the dry season brings severe water shortages for consumption and agriculture. The minister stated that the Royal Irrigation Department will closely monitor water conditions using real-time data systems and coordinate with communities for early warning and rapid response.
The Nam Lai Reservoir project, initiated under the vision of the late King Rama IX, is planned for construction between 2571–2576 and will store 27.99 million cubic meters of water, benefiting over 17,200 rai of agricultural land and providing water to 14,270 households. The government is also tracking the construction of the Huai Nam Huay floodgate, intended to replace a 43-year-old weir damaged by forest runoff, which will improve water retention for 572 households and support 1,000 rai of farmland.
Suriya emphasized that water management requires careful planning and cooperation among all sectors. He instructed the Royal Irrigation Department to prepare project readiness for budget allocation while coordinating closely with provincial, local, and community partners to ensure water management aligns with local conditions and delivers real benefits to residents.
