Ministry of Environment Forms Investigation Committee to Examine Appropriateness of Dam Operations

Comprehensive Investigation on Dam Operation Appropriateness Related to Discharge... Composed of Private Experts
In Response to Criticism of "Inadequate Integrated River Management," "Prompt Legal Revision" Announced

The swollen waters of the Seomjin River. (Photo by Yonhap News)

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Chae-seok] The Ministry of Environment announced on the 14th that it has begun an objective verification process to determine whether the operation and management of major dams during heavy rainfall were appropriate.

The Ministry of Environment plans to form a 'Dam Management Investigation Committee' to investigate the appropriateness of dam operation and management in flood-affected downstream areas such as the Seomjin River Dam, Yongdam Dam, and Hapcheon Dam.

Preliminary investigations will begin next week. A private sector chairman will be appointed. Committee members will be selected based on recommendations from local governments, relevant academic societies, and regional councils for each area including Seomjin River Dam, Yongdam Dam, and Hapcheon Dam.

The investigation will cover the appropriateness of dam operations including discharge volume, timing and duration of discharge, and whether discharge notifications were made, as well as overall dam operation and management standards.

Meanwhile, Minister of Environment Cho Myung-rae visited the Seomjin River Dam and downstream areas in the afternoon to hear local opinions.

He stated, "We will conduct an objective and prompt verification of dam operation appropriateness by fully reflecting the opinions of local residents."