Modeling the effect of dam construction and operation towards downstream water quality of Sg. Tawau and Batang Baleh
Amongst all the natural resources necessary to support human civilization, water plays the most critical role. Planning and development of water resources to meet a country's need for water supply, flood control, hydroelectric power, irrigation, and navigation need to be evaluated with referenc...
| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
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Euresian Publication
2012
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://irep.iium.edu.my/26223/ http://irep.iium.edu.my/26223/ http://irep.iium.edu.my/26223/1/WJAEC-1-2-3.pdf |
| Summary: | Amongst all the natural resources necessary to support human civilization, water plays the most critical role. Planning and development of water resources to meet a country's need for water supply, flood control, hydroelectric power, irrigation, and navigation need to be evaluated with reference to the environmental needs and regulations. One such method is construction of dams and reservoirs which have enabled efficient usage and storage of water over the years. The intent of this study is to apply a water quality model (QUAL2E developed by USEPA)to critically examine the plausible environmental impacts of two proposed dams in Malaysia around the areas of Sg. Tawau and the Batang Baleh. Numerous operational scenarios, with and without the proposed dams were considered. Primary concerns about the effects of dam operations on water quality were physico-chemical water quality constituents such as BOD, dissolved oxygen and TSS. Results obtained depicted that the construction process would result in a slight degradation of the water quality for the Tawau dam elevating the BOD and TSS levels; whereas for the Batang Baleh dam, none such adverse effects were identified, however with frequent removal of organics and sediment build up behind the dam the ill effects of dam construction on the both the rivers can be avoided. The proposed discharge volume (compensational flow) of 280 m3/s should be sufficient in sustaining the ambient water quality during the operational phase of the Tawau dam while as for Batang Baleh the flow should be maintained at 2.0 m3/s. The results also depicted that for both Tawau and Batang Baleh dams, intermittent flow release during the reservoir storage process, particularly during the dry season should be done, to maintain water quality levels at the downstream reaches. |
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