Message from the Director-General：
Under the influence of climate change, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather have increased rapidly. The alternating phenomenon of droughts and floods has consistently placed the Water Resources Agency in the position of combating droughts and preventing floods.
In particular, from July to August 2022, significantly less rainfall in the northeastern region of Taiwan led to a rapid decline in river flow, causing water supply difficulties in highland areas such as Zhongzheng District and Xinyi District in Keelung City. The Water Resources Agency, along with related departments, implemented various drought relief measures. These measures included cross-regional water source support, total capacity control of Xinshan reservoir, reducing pressure of water supply, installation of new backup wells, Shuangxi deep pool diversion, dispatching water tanker support, and artificial rainfall enhancement.
These multiple water supply measures aimed to stabilize the water supply for people's livelihoods and industries. Ultimately, these efforts successfully resolved the drought crisis.
Reflecting on the outcomes of the Water Resources Agency's persistent endeavors to counteract the climate change crisis through innovation, meticulous management, and big data analysis played pivotal roles in controlling water trends during droughts. The agency proactively collaborated with the central and local governments to implement measures for water conservation, transfer, and exploration.
In terms of technology application, the Water Resources Agency developed support for smart irrigation and collaborated with TSMC and the Chianan Management Office to promote these advancements in the Chianan Irrigation District. Furthermore, the agency enhanced Internet of Things (IoT) management data for water resources, introduced the first smart water meter, and integrated augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies for flood prevention. The widespread distribution of flood sensing detectors was implemented to capture real-time flooding information, thereby improving public awareness of water-related matters.
The Water Resources Agency, committed to service innovation, collectively addressed challenges related to floods, droughts, and water source management. Through the dedication of its colleagues, the agency successfully overcame these issues and showcased Taiwan's water resources expertise on the international stage, aligning with global trends. Winning the 5th Presidential Innovation Award in 2022 is a testament to the collective efforts of all colleagues and serves as an honor for the Water Resources Agency.
Furthermore, the Water Resources Agency has been diligent in its efforts to reduce carbon emissions in water resources projects. It utilizes the "Reference Guidelines for Carbon Reduction in Water Resources Projects (Planning and Design)" to explicitly outline the basis for carbon management objectives and assess the effectiveness of low-carbon design. To ensure impartial evaluation, the agency collaborates with the British Standards Institution (BSI), a third-party organization.
Moreover, in 2022, the bill to amend the “Reclaimed Water Resources Development Act” successfully passed on the third reading, thereby expanding the scope of reclaimed water usage. Internationally, the Water Resources Agency has strengthened exchanges with experts from the United States, Japan, and the Netherlands, focusing on climate adaptation strategies.
In terms of flood prevention preparations, the agency has consistently conducted practical operation response drills for colleagues and actively collaborated with private enterprises and groups to establish flood prevention volunteers and Self-Precaution Community. This collective effort aims to build a robust flood prevention safety net.
Additionally, the Water Resources Agency embraces a new approach to water management and demonstrates a profound understanding of nature. Through sustainable ecological care and the promotion of nature-based solutions, the agency collaborates with afforestation initiatives to increase the annual effects of carbon sequestration. This approach not only strengthens the connection between people, water, and land but also contributes to a more sustainable and resilient ecosystem.
In the face of the severe challenges posed by climate change, the economic environment, and the ongoing epidemic conditions in 2022, I would like to express my gratitude to the colleagues of the Water Resources Agency. Their collaboration in promoting water resources policies has been instrumental in stabilizing water supply and creating a safe, livable, comfortable, and enjoyable water environment.
The future of Taiwan's water resources will continue to face rigorous challenges. The Water Resources Agency will persistently promote various water infrastructure projects through international cooperation, public-private partnerships, information transparency, integrity, and a commitment to ecological conservation. Embracing asymmetric governance thinking and concepts of risk management, the WRA aims to enhance the country's resilience in flood prevention and water management. Simultaneously, the agency will foster a natural and water-friendly environment. Through collaboration between the central and local authorities, we can collectively realize the vision of a "resilient flood control and scenic water environment."
Important events：
⚫ 2022/1/7：Minister Mei-Hua Wang of the Ministry of Economic Affairs inspected the tap water supply facilities downstream of the Niaozuitan artificial lake
Minister Mei-Hua Wang, accompanied by Director-General Chien-Hsin Lai and Chairperson Nan-tzer Hu of Taiwan Water Company, inspected the Jiaxing water purification plant. In addition to thanking colleagues for their hard work, she also requested Taiwan Water Company to supply Nantou with 20,000 tons of water per day by the end of January 2022, also aiming to provide 90,000 tons per day to Nantou and Changhua in July, in accordance with the water supply schedule. The directive is to utilize more surface water and reduce reliance on groundwater to expedite the mitigation of ground subsidence as soon as possible.
⚫ 2022/2/23：Minister Mei-Hua Wang of the Ministry of Economic Affairs inspected the backup dispatch main pipe project plan - Cijin’s second cross-port water pipe project
Minister Mei-Hua Wang, accompanied by Director-General Chien-Hsin Lai and Chairperson Nan-tzer Hu of Taiwan Water Company, went to Kaohsiung to inspect the progress of Cijin's second water pipe project and expressed gratitude to the contractor for their hard work. This project is scheduled for completion by the end of July 2022. Once finished, it will provide the Cijin area with a daily backup water volume of 10,200 tons.
⚫ 2022/3/6：Director-General Chien-Hsin Lai of the Water Resources Agency inspected the overall environmental improvement project of the Xucuoliao embankment section of the Zhuoshui Stream, which is part of the Fourth River Management Branch.
Director-General Chien-Hsin Lai visited Mailiao Township, Yunlin County to inspect the progress of the comprehensive environmental improvement project for the Xucuoliao embankment section of the Zhuoshui River, conducted by the Fourth River Management Branch. The branch reported that the project, awarded on December 10, 2022, is expected to be completed by the end of the same year.
The Director-General directed the Fourth River Management Branch to adhere to the schedule and maintain high-quality standards in the project's execution. The initiative aims to enhance approximately 6.3 hectares of the Zhuoshui River high riverbank and its surrounding environment. It also seeks to improve the recreational functionality of the river environment, repurpose idle and abandoned fish ponds for ecological protection, and integrate local characteristics of Mailiao Township. This effort includes creating highlight landscapes to promote local creativity and contribute to the overall improvement of the region.
⚫ 2022/3/22：On World Water Day, the Water Resources Agency collaborates with outstanding water-saving manufacturers to jointly promote the creation of a water-saving society.
On the occasion of World Water Day, the "2022 Water Saving Honor Award Ceremony" took place at the National Taiwan University Hospital International Conference Center on the 22nd. Yiling Chen, Chief Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, and Chien-Hsin Lai, Director-General of the Water Resources Agency, were present to confer awards for outstanding water conservation performance and the successful implementation of water-saving measures.
The ceremony aimed to recognize units that demonstrated exceptional results in water conservation. The event serves as a platform to commend these outstanding units for their achievements in water-saving practices. Moreover, by aligning with the theme of World Water Day, it underscores the commitment and proactive measures undertaken by both the Water Resources Agency and enterprises to address water conservation challenges.
⚫ 2022/4/20：In response to the impending flood threat, the Water Resources Agency invites local water conservancy heads to make advance preparations.
Deputy Director Hua-Ping Tsao chaired the "Ministry of Economic Affairs' 2022 Flood Control and Preparation Symposium." With the imminent flood season in mind, leaders of water resources agency from municipalities and county (city) governments were invited to share their experiences and engage in discussions on flood control. The primary goal was to bolster coordination and foster closer collaboration between central and local governments.
The symposium aimed to establish a shared understanding and action plan for disaster prevention. In addition to highlighting the importance of collective disaster prevention efforts by the entire population and proactive deployment, there was an emphasis on the need for local governments to heighten risk awareness and undertake comprehensive preparations for flood prevention.
⚫ 2022/4/23：Premier Su Tseng-chang of the Executive Yuan inspected the Wuxi Niaozuitan artificial lake project.
Premier Su Tseng-chang of the Executive Yuan, accompanied by Minister Wang Mei-hua of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Director-General Lai Chien-Hsin of the Water Resources Agency, went to Nantou County to inspect the "Wu River Niaozuitan Artificial Lake Project". In addition to thanking the frontline workers for their dedicated and hard work, the engineering staff were also appreciated. They further stated that after the completion of the Niaozuitan Artificial Lake, it will be able to provide stable water supply to Nantou County and Changhua County. The surrounding area will also create a new recreational highlight and promote the development of local tourism. It can be regarded as a multi-purpose project.
⚫ 2022/4/29：The Water Resources Agency has won the 5th Presidential Innovation Award for its efforts in laying the groundwork for the well-being of people, the land, and future generations.
Water conservancy is the oldest public service industry with thousands of years of history. The Water Resources Agency has injected innovative thinking and won the 5th "President Innovation Award" in the group category. The president personally commended and awarded the prize. Under the severe test of climate change, the Water Resources Agency uses the latest technology and forward-looking management thinking to make water control and stable water supply work more precise, timely, and aligned with people's needs. This highlights the value of land and water environments and serves both people and the land, laying a sustainable foundation for the next generation.
⚫ 2022/5/14：The first wave of rainy season lingers and the Ministry of Economic Affairs responds to floods
In order to prepare in advance and respond to the impact of the lingering front of the first plum rain in 2022, the Flood Emergency Response Team of the Ministry of Economic Affairs was activated at 9:00 on May 14 to ensure the safety of people's lives and property. The deputy director, chief engineer, and chief secretary oversee the response team to assess the dynamics of the stagnant front and the flooding situation, and maintain communication with the local government.
⚫ 2022/5/18：Reclaimed Water Resources Development Act
On May 18, 2022, the amendment to the “Reclaimed Water Resources Development Act” has been issued.
⚫ 2022/6/29：Director-General Lai Chien-Hsin of the Water Resources Agency inspected the drainage management and flood prevention preparations of Sanye Creek
The entire Sanye Creek drainage management project is scheduled to be completed by the end of November 2011. Director-General Lai Chien-Hsin inspected the Sanye Creek drainage management and flood control preparations.
⚫ 2022/7/12："The 6th National High School, Vocational and College Small Hydropower Design Competition" Northern Field Preliminary Opening Ceremony.
This small hydraulic design competition is co-sponsored by the Taiwan Environmental Protection Alliance, National Taiwan University Hydraulic Laboratory, Taiwan Power Company, Mom Supervision Nuclear Power Plant Alliance, and the Water Resources Agency. Vice Premier Shen Jong-chin of the Executive Yuan was invited to the opening ceremony to provide guidance, accompanied by Deputy Director Wang Yi-feng, to discuss their design concepts with the participating teams
⚫ 2022/7/22：2022 "Appointment with the Director-General" North Region Symposium
The symposium was held at the Water Information Center of the Second River Management Branch and included approximately 55 participants, including representatives from the Taipei Office of the Water Resources Agency, the Northern Region Water Resources Branch, the Taipei Water Management Branch, the First River Management Branch, the Second River Management Branch, and the Tenth River Management Branch.
⚫ 2022/7/26：2022 "Appointment with the Director-General" Central Region Symposium
The symposium was held at the Third River Management Branch and was attended by about 100 colleagues from the Taichung Office of the Water Resources Agency, the Central Region Water Resources Branch, the Water Resources Planning Branch, the Third River Management Branch and the Fourth River Management Branch.
⚫ 2022/8/1：2022 "Appointment with the Director-General" Eastern Region Symposium
The symposium was held at the Eighth River Management Branch, with approximately 50 colleagues from both the Eighth and Ninth River Management Branches of the Water Resources Agency in attendance.
⚫ 2022/8/5：2022 "Appointment with the Director-General" Southern District Symposium
This symposium was held during the holidays of the Seventh River Management Branch, with approximately 85 colleagues from the Southern Region Water Resources Branch, the Fifth River Management Branch, the Sixth River Management Branch, and the Seventh River Management Branch of the Water Resources Agency participating.
⚫ 2022/8/19：Make every effort to prevent drought and prepare in advance.
At present, the water storage rate of major reservoirs in Taiwan ranges from about 50% to nearly full, and the water conditions remain stable. In the short term, water conditions in Keelung are more severe. The water condition warning light was switched to green on August 15, and relevant water source dispatch measures have been strengthened in response. Additionally, the Water Resources Agency held two water supply situation review meetings for the second half of the year on July 27 and August 11, 2022. By reinforcing water-saving dispatching measures for water sources in various regions, we aim to maintain a high water storage rate in reservoirs and prepare drought-resistant wells in advance. We will also ensure the availability of subsurface water, emergency desalination units, water purification equipment, and other facilities, and take preemptive actions before the onset of drought.
⚫ 2022/9/29：The Water Resources Agency's Hoowave Water Factory International Picture Competition Award Ceremony and Achievements Exhibition Opening Press Conference.
The "Huwei Tide Resilient Urban Waterfront Stitching International Competition" represents the nation's pioneering international contest in the field of water resources engineering. Its primary aim is to merge the Huwei Urban Planning Area with Beigang Creek by intertwining planning methodologies with design aesthetics. A central focus of the proposed planning is the preservation of Huwei's historic sites and local cultural heritage. Through the concept of "Waterfront Stitching," the interconnection between Beigang Creek, Anqing Canal, and urban residents becomes evident, showcasing the river's beauty while harmonizing culture, spatial aesthetics, and public services. This initiative strives to integrate the lives of Huwei residents into the urban fabric, utilizing Huwei as the benchmark for the country's inaugural "resilient town." This integration aims to blend the town's cultural memory, industrial history, and economic sectors, thereby embedding the notion of resilience deeply within every aspect of the city.
⚫ 2022/10/11：To broaden its international perspective, the Water Resources Agency of the Ministry of Economic Affairs organized a symposium with international consultants to collaboratively devise adaptation and mitigation strategies for addressing climate change.
In order to stay updated on the international water resources situation, the Water Resources Agency convened its first formal meeting since the establishment of the International Consultant Group in 2022. Director-General Chien-Hsin Lai led senior officials and heads of each division, along with three international consultants: Professor Zoran Vojinovic from the Netherlands, Professor Peter Fröhle from Germany, and Professor Nobuyuki Tsuchiya from Japan, who participated in a symposium via video link. During the meeting, the consultants shared insights into the drought responses of their respective countries and offered suggestions for Taiwan's future water resources planning. The aim was to collaboratively address international water resource challenges.
⚫ 2022/10/12~10/15：2022 Taiwan International Water Week
The three-day "2022 Taiwan International Water Week - International Forum" will feature a total of 1 water leadership summit and 12 forums. Over 55 domestic and foreign speakers have been invited to foster cross-domain cooperation. Emphasizing green sustainability as the starting point, the event will incorporate new environmentally friendly perspectives to discuss and plan innovative, forward-looking, and comprehensive water strategies.
In addition to the forums, efforts to promote the domestic water resources industry, expand demand and investment, and enhance technological capabilities will be made. The Water Resources Agency, in collaboration with the Taiwan External Trade Development Council, has jointly invited 22 domestic manufacturers to organize a water conservancy industry-themed forum pavilion. This initiative aims to promote industry growth, elevate technological standards, and explore new avenues of innovation within the water conservancy sector.
⚫ 2022/10/12：Ceremony Commending Personnel and Groups with Outstanding Contributions to Water Resources Across the Country: Quenching Innovation, Ensuring Sustainable Water Conservation
The Water Resources Agency held the 'Quenching Innovation and Sustainable Water Resources - Recognizing Personnel and Groups with Outstanding Contributions to Water Resources in the Nation' ceremony at the Taipei International Convention Center to commend the Lifetime Achievement Award winner, Honorary Professor Chin-Tung Kuo and 29 individuals with outstanding contributions to water resources in the country. Additionally, awards were presented to outstanding counties and cities recognized by the National People's Congress of Water Resources Workers, as well as to exemplary workers, outstanding units in greening and landscaping waterfront land adoption and maintenance, and independent flood prevention community assessments. Deputy Minister Wen-Sheng Tseng of the Ministry of Economic Affairs attended the event in person to offer congratulations. More than 200 people from water conservancy-related industries, government officials, and academia participated in this grand event.
⚫ 2022/11/16 ：2022 Flood Control Review and Progress Meeting
In response to the review of flood control response work and the challenges posed by extreme weather, the "2022 Flood Control Review and Progress Meeting" was held at the International Conference Hall of the National Taiwan University Convention Center. Through face-to-face discussions among local and central water resources personnel, attendees reviewed this year's flood control efforts and proposed strategies. The world-renowned radar meteorological expert, Director Wen-Chau Lee of the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), was specially invited to deliver a keynote speech on "Radar Observation of Wind and Rain Measurement." Multi-party exchanges and discussions during the meeting stimulated new ideas in disaster prevention and response, thereby enhancing disaster prevention and response capabilities.
⚫ 2022/11/23 ：The front passes, and the chance of rainfall increases. The Water Resources Agency collaboratively conducts artificial rainfall enhancement at Tsengwen Reservoir, employing both land-based and aerial methods.
According to the latest weather forecast, the likelihood of rainfall has risen due to the passage of a front on November 23rd and the intensification of the northeast monsoon. The Water Resources Agency has taken advantage of this opportunity and has notified both the Tsengwen Reservoir management unit and the rainfall enhancement team of the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology to carry out ground-based, fire bomb, and unmanned operations separately. It is anticipated that the machine-based rainfall enhancement operation will increase rainfall in the reservoir catchment area.
⚫ 2022/12/14 ：Appointment with the Director-General in 2022
Gather river community NPOs, etc., to conduct public-private dialogue and cooperation, and refer to the spirit of the “hackathon” and adopt the innovative approach of “Water-thon.” Invite friends from the public to share the difficulties faced by water resources or advocacy issues, engage in group discussions, and propose specific measures or vision proposals.
⚫ 2022/12/22：The Water Resources Agency won eight gold medals at the “22nd Public Works Gold Award” Ceremony
The Public Works Committee of the Executive Yuan held a grand award ceremony for the "22nd Public Works Gold Award" on the 22nd December . The Water Resources stood out this year and won the "Public Works Quality Award - Water Resources Category" with 3 excellent items and 1 excellent item. The "Public Facilities Maintenance Management Award" included 7 projects, including 1 excellent project and 2 masterpieces, while 1 engineer received the individual contribution award, totaling 8 gold medals. The award ceremony was chaired by Tse-Cheng Wu, Minister of the Public Construction Commission, and hosted by Premier Tseng-Chang Su, who personally presented the special trophies. Director-General Chien-Hsin Lai led his colleagues and manufacturers to participate and share the glory.
