The Ubol Ratana Dam, formerly known as the "Phong Neeb Dam", is a multi-purpose dam in Tambon Khok Sung, Ubolratana district, approximately 50 km north of Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen province, Thailand .
It was the first hydroelectric power project developed in Thailand's northeastern area of Isan. The dam impounds the Nam Phong, which flows into the Chi River and thence to the Mun River, a tributary of the Mekong River. The dam was given its current name by royal permission in 1966, in honor of princess Ubol Ratana, the eldest child of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
Here's a summary of the Ubol Ratana Dam:
- Multi-purpose dam: Provides electricity generation, irrigation, flood control, transportation, fisheries, and serves as a tourist attraction.
- Construction: Built in 1964 and completed in 1966 [1].
- Type: Earth core rockfill dam
- Height: 32 m (105 ft)
- Crest length: 885 m (2,904 ft)
- Catchment area: 12,104 km2 (4,673 sq mi)
- Reservoir capacity: 2,263,000 m3 (79,900,000 cu ft)
- Managed by: Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT)
The dam's construction displaced 30,000 people to make way for the large reservoir. However, the dam has provided significant benefits to the region, including irrigation for agriculture, flood control, and a boost to the local economy through tourism. The Ubolratana Dam is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and relaxing by the lake. There are also restaurants, resorts, and a golf course located near the dam.