Vientiane:China’s Ministry of Water Resources has underscored its long-standing collaboration with the Mekong River Commission and Mekong countries in hydrological data sharing and flood and drought management.
According to Lao News Agency, at an event marking 30 years of dialogue between the MRC and Dialogue Partners China and Myanmar, Mr. Sun Gaohu from China’s Ministry of Water Resources shared insights on managing flood and drought conditions in the Lancang-Mekong Basin. China began sharing hydrological data with the MRC in 2002, focusing on Yunnan Province’s hydrological stations. This cooperation expanded in November 2020 to include year-round data sharing.
Mr. Sun highlighted China’s 24-year commitment to providing hydrological data to MRC member countries, noting the importance of upstream information for downstream flood preparedness. He also discussed the Lancang-Mekong Water Resources Cooperation Information Sharing Platform, aimed at enhancing communication on water issues.
China’s assessment of hydropower development on the Lancang River was also presented. The Ministry of Water Resources reported that 13 hydropower stations now help regulate water flows seasonally. This regulation increases dry-season flows and manages wet-season water levels, significantly affecting flow conditions at Chiang Saen.
The analysis using the Peak Over Threshold model indicated fewer extreme flood events at key locations since the completion of major hydropower stations. Mr. Sun emphasized that downstream rainfall and tributary inflows remain crucial in shaping flood conditions.
Recent flood data from 2024 to 2026 highlighted major events linked to seasonal weather patterns and the limited flood control capabilities of upstream reservoirs. Without reservoir regulation, outflows during these events could have been significantly higher.
In 2016, China released emergency water supplies during a severe drought, illustrating the importance of regional cooperation. Mr. Sun stressed the need for continued collaboration to enhance water security and sustainable development in the basin, with China willing to engage in joint efforts with MRC nations on water management challenges.
