Background

Formerly known as “Phong Neep Dam,” Ubol Ratana Dam, located across Nam Phong River at Ubol Ratana District in Khon Kaen Province, is the second multipurpose dam that was built after Bhumibol Dam. Apart from electricity generation, the dam serves as an important water source for agricultural areas of more than 300,000 rai in Khon Kaen and Maha Sarakham provinces. Water is available for planting all year round. Moreover, the dam is the source of freshwater fisheries from which the local people get more income from processed fish products, a well-known product of Ubol Ratana District.

The construction of Ubol Ratana Dam started in 1964 and was completed in 1966. The foundation stone was laid on May 10, 1964.  Their Majesties King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great and Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother, accompanied by Princess Ubol Ratana, performed the opening ceremony of the dam on March 14, 1966.