Agriculture Minister Suriya Visits EEC, Directs All Agencies to Maximize Water Management Efficiency
Agriculture Minister Suriya inspected water management preparations across Chanthaburi and the Eastern Economic Corridor, directing agencies to maximize efficiency as the monsoon season approaches with potential El Niño effects.
Today (May 17, 2025), Agriculture Minister Suriya Jungrungruangkit, accompanied by Deputy Agriculture Minister Watcharapol Khaokhram and his delegation, conducted a field inspection of water management and monsoon season 2025 preparations in Chanthaburi Province at the Phlakdee Rampai Royal Water Drainage Project. The inspection was led by Irrigation Department Director-General Suriyphol Nuchonong, Deputy Director-General Thanon Suthipichai, and Thinakorn Lueorloen, Director of the 9th Regional Irrigation Office, along with representatives from various government agencies.
Current water levels in the six main reservoirs across Chanthaburi Province total approximately 189 million cubic meters, representing 50% of combined capacity. This provides ample storage space to accommodate rainfall expected between May and October while maintaining sufficient reserves for the upcoming dry season. Water management plans for the coming monsoon will balance current precipitation with adequate storage for future dry season needs.
The minister's delegation then proceeded to Prasaer Reservoir in Wang Chan District, Rayong Province, to monitor water management conditions in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) area encompassing Chachoengsao, Rayong, and Chonburi provinces. Currently, the EEC region holds approximately 505 million cubic meters of water, or 37% of total reservoir capacity. Close weather monitoring has detected potential El Niño effects that may result in below-average rainfall in certain periods. The Royal Irrigation Department has implemented contingency measures by diverting water between various sources and storing it in interconnected reservoirs throughout the EEC. More than 27 million cubic meters have already been transferred to enhance water security and meet the needs of residents, industry, and agriculture while reducing future water shortage risks.
The Agriculture Minister has directed all relevant agencies to closely monitor weather patterns and water conditions, while preparing machinery, equipment, and personnel to provide rapid assistance to affected communities, thereby minimizing potential impacts.
