Bangkok: The National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) recently implemented the cutting-edge "Hydro Vision Plus/AI" technology in Nang Lae Subdistrict, located in Chiang Rai Province. This initiative aims to bolster community flood monitoring and enhance flood warning capabilities through advanced research and innovative solutions.
According to Thai News Agency, the NRCT, under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, led by Dr. Wiparat Dee-ong, Director of the NRCT, alongside Associate Professor Dr. Sujarit Koonthanakulwong, Program Director of the strategic "Water Security: No Floods, No Droughts" initiative, oversaw the deployment of the "Flood and Drought Warning System for Communities (Hydro Vision Plus/AI)" in Nang Lae Subdistrict Municipality, Mueang Chiang Rai District. This effort is aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of local water monitoring and warning systems.
Dr. Wiparat emphasized the NRCT's focus on the practical application of research and innovation, particularly in addressing water management challenges and mitigating the impacts of floods and droughts. The Hydro Vision Plus/AI system integrates scientific and innovative knowledge with local expertise, enabling communities to monitor water conditions and make prompt, informed decisions. The project also seeks to develop pilot areas with potential for expansion to other regions.
Assistant Professor Dr. Chakrit Khanaree from Chiang Rai Rajabhat University highlighted that Hydro Vision Plus/AI facilitates real-time water monitoring. It measures water levels and rainfall, transmits data online, and displays results on websites and mobile devices. Utilizing artificial intelligence (AI), it processes data and connects to CCTV cameras for situation analysis, providing advance warnings of 3-5 hours, enabling both agencies and the public to prepare efficiently.
Mr. Suchart Somprasong, Mayor of Nang Lae Subdistrict Municipality, noted the importance of water management and flood preparedness. The support from the NRCT and its research team, through the Hydro Vision Plus/AI innovation, will enhance the monitoring and tracking of water situations in the area. This will provide rapid and precise data for planning, public warnings, and effective situation management, while promoting community participation to sustainably reduce water-related risks.
Currently, the innovation covers three major river basins in Chiang Rai province, including the Pong Phrabat-Kok River, the Mae Khaotom-Nang Lae-Rong Ha River, and the Kok River. It spans areas within Nang Lae, Ban Du, and Tha Sut municipalities, as well as Rob Wiang and Pa Sak sub-district administrative organizations, with 13 installation points serving over 2,000 households. A network of local officials and community innovators actively manages the system.
This initiative underscores the NRCT's commitment to fostering research and innovation that address regional needs, empowering communities to manage water resources independently, and enhancing disaster prevention and risk reduction. It aims to improve citizens' quality of life and promote sustainable national water resource management.