Description:

The Chi River Basin spans approximately 49,130 km2, which is approximately 30,706,152 rai (30.71 million rai). It covers 13 provinces, namely Kalasin, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Phetchabun, Maha Sarakham, Yasothon, Roi Et, Si Sa Ket, Nong Bua Lam Phu, Udon Thani, and Ubon Ratchathani. Almost all the river basin area is in Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Kalasin and Roi Et provinces, respectively, with a population of approximately 5,953,334 (5.95). It has an average annual rainfall of 1,188 mm and an average annual runoff of 11,994 MCM. The water demand by all sectors amounts to 5,068 MCM; however, the water storage capacity of local large- and medium-scale projects is only 5,687 MCM. Thus, the Chi River Basin always experiences water issues. Top- priority water- related problems include the shortage of water for agriculture, shortage of water for domestic use, flooding in urban and agricultural areas, and water quality issues. The Chi River Basin comprises a total forest area of approximately 5,091,486 rai (5. 09 million rai), which represents 16. 5 8 percent of the river basin area, and comprises a total agricultural area of approximately 20,436,852 rai (20. 44 million rai), representing 6 6 . 5 6 percent of the river basin area.