Keo Coi Reservoir, with a storage capacity of 52,000 cubic meters, supplies irrigation water to over 10 hectares of rice fields and crops for residents. However, as constructed several decades ago, the dam body leaks, resulting in water loss and potential safety risks to the structure.
To address this issue, the government of Japan has provided nearly VND 52 billion (approximately USD 2 million) to fix water seepage through the dam of Keo Coi Reservoir, located in Cu Le Commune, Na Ri District, Bac Kan Province. The project officially broke ground on May 10.
Ozawa Doboku Joint Stock Company, a reputable Japanese enterprise, has partnered in implementing the project, utilizing a steel sheet pile seepage control solution with Press-in technology. This is the first time the method has been applied in Bac Kan Province.
Groundbreaking ceremony for the Keo Coi Reservoir Upgrade and Repair Project. Photo: Ngoc Tu.The Press-in method minimizes noise and vibration during construction, offering a modern alternative to conventional pile-driving techniques. It is well-suited for complex terrain such as narrow construction sites, slopes, embankments, and even over water.
Experts have assessed that this solution not only ensures efficiency and safety but is also cost-effective, making it highly appropriate for earth dam structures in mountainous provinces like Bac Kan.
Bac Kan has 35 water reservoirs, most of which were built long ago using outdated technology. The dam bodies, mainly made of compacted earth, are deteriorating and pose increasing risks during the rainy and stormy seasons. The upgrade of Keo Coi Reservoir is expected to enhance dam safety and secure the essential irrigation water supply for local agricultural production.