The Irrigation Department clarifies that the electronic control system of Nam Ngae Reservoir in Nan Province was affected by flooding during the recent rainy season. Funding requests for repairs are in progress. They affirm the reservoir remains safe, structurally sound, and fully capable of storing water.
On 22 May 2026, the Irrigation Department through its Regional Office 2 explained that Typhoon Wipha on 23 July 2025 caused prolonged heavy rainfall in Nan Province, with accumulated rainfall exceeding 290 millimeters within 24 hours—the highest in over 70 years. This led to flash floods and severe flooding in multiple areas, prompting Nan Province to declare a state of emergency. Notably, Nam Ngae Reservoir was impacted by floodwaters carrying debris and large logs flowing into the reservoir and through its spillway. The logs struck and damaged the concrete structure, while the strong currents further eroded the structure, damaging the stainless steel track housing the hydraulic system. As a result, the hydraulic water gate control system became inoperable.
Despite damage to the electronic control system, the water gates can still be opened and closed manually using labor and designed equipment, such as pulley systems to lift the gates, chains to secure gates to pillars, and structural reinforcement with braces. This allows for continued safe and effective water management.
During the recent dry season, the Irrigation Department raised the water gates to increase storage capacity, ensuring sufficient water supply for farmers, the Provincial Waterworks Authority branch in Nan Noi, and residents across three subdistricts. The reservoir also remains able to meet agricultural water demands at the start of this rainy season.
Technical staff inspected the hydraulic system damage and confirmed it resulted from the recent rainy season floods. A request for urgent repair funding for fiscal year 2026 has been submitted and is currently under budget allocation review. Upon approval, repairs will be expedited to restore full functionality as soon as possible.
