THPC Hydrological Data Support (Laos)

DSI was initially contracted by THPC to first evaluate the existing hydrologic and hydraulic data collection program, develop a new Hydrologic Monitoring Program (HMP) and then implement the new program. From 2005 DSI provided the data collection, management and reporting of the hydrologic and sediment data for THPC. The HMP has two components, one for the upstream area that feeds the hydropower planning and engineering and the second providing the hydrologic and sediment data for the downstream area of the project. A major expansion of the project has required intensive monitoring and assessments. DSI maintained over 30 automatic logger stations and 20 manual stations collecting water levels, flows, velocities, suspended sediment, bedload, and total sediment discharge as well as related hydropower operations data. ADCP data is processed with ADCP_Tool developed by DS-INTL and all data assembled into a data management and reporting system for continuous records (Q_Tool) and discrete samples (WQ_Tool). The system allows for rapid data analysis, QC/QA and reporting. Monthly, annual and special project reports are prepared for the client and various regulatory agencies and international organizations. In 2012 the hydrologic monitoring system was upgraded to real-time. All logger stations were configured with a telemetry system for automated data transmission using GSM and Iridium satellite modems set-up by DSI. Real-time data updates were provided to the client for management of dams and for linkage to a Surface Water Management System for effective and sustainable management. The system also allows for rapid data analysis, QC/QA and reporting. Benefits of the real-time system include application and solutions to aid decision-making; efficient management of dams, reservoirs and resources; reduced number of visit to remote stations.