In accordance with the “Regulations on Inspection and Safety Assessment of Hydraulic Structures,” the Ministry of Economic Affairs mandates the “Inspection and Safety Assessment Subgroup on Waterproofing and Drainage” to complete the reinspection of hydraulic structures under each River Management branch,WRA by the end of April annually. Our branch collaborates with relevant agencies to complete the inspections by the end of January each year. The 2025 regular inspections were carried out from December 9, 2024, to January 8, 2025, covering a total of 398 items.
To implement this, our branch has established the “Fourth River Management branch Reinspection Procedures for Hydraulic Structures,” ensuring that at least 8% of the inspected items undergo reinspection. These reinspections verify whether the assigned improvement grades need adjustment. From January 21 to 23 this year, reinspections were conducted at 43 locations. The improvement grades were revised as follows:(1)4 facilities changed from “Planned Improvement” to “Continuous Monitoring”
(2)1 from “Attention Needed” to “Planned Improvement”(3)1 from “Continuous Monitoring” to “Immediate Improvement”(4)1 from “Normal” to “Continuous Monitoring”(5) 1 from “Planned Improvement” to “Attention Needed”(6) 1 from “Normal” to “Planned Improvement”(7)totaling 11 locations with adjusted improvement classifications to better reflect actual structure conditions.
In addition to routine inspections, our branch assessed high-risk levee segments potentially affected by Typhoon Gaemi, such as river course shifts, direct current impacts, and sediment accumulation. Satellite imagery was used to compare pre-typhoon and post-typhoon conditions. For areas showing significant changes or insufficient sandbar width, UAV (drone) aerial photography was employed for detailed inspection, allowing for emergency response plans to be developed and ensuring river stability and the safety of protected downstream areas.
Our branch also reviewed severely damaged areas caused by Typhoon Gaemi. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) was used on repaired sections to evaluate internal structural conditions. These non-destructive tests effectively assess the integrity of levees and related structures, ensuring the repairs meet protection standards and reduce the risk of recurring flood damage during this year’s flood season.
Furthermore, our branch has enhanced its daily inspection mechanisms, conducting regular checks on vulnerable areas and integrating advanced monitoring technology such as UAV aerial surveillance. We aim to continuously improve the maintenance plan for hydraulic structures and strengthen disaster response capabilities in collaboration with local governments and relevant agencies, safeguarding public life and property.