Sri Lanka Hydrological Information System

Powerdrive Technologies is proud to have partnered with the Ministry of Irrigation, Government of Sri Lanka, to implement a comprehensive Hydrological Information System (HIS) in the Kelani River Basin. This project leverages advanced data acquisition and monitoring technologies to ensure precise and real-time tracking of hydrological data, including rainfall and water levels. Designed to enhance water resource management and flood control capabilities, the system delivers accurate and timely information to central control stations, enabling better decision-making and increased preparedness for extreme weather events.

Project Overview

Powerdrive Technologies collaborated with the Ministry of Irrigation to deploy an advanced Hydrological Information System (HIS) in the Kelani River Basin. This system automates the acquisition and management of critical hydrological data, such as rainfall and water levels, from remote observation stations. It supports Sri Lanka’s water resource management and flood control efforts by providing real-time data to central control centers.

System Architecture and Data Management

The HIS is built on a centralized Data Acquisition System that interfaces with remote terminal stations throughout the Kelani River Basin. Powered by an SQL Server database, the system stores, processes, and manages hydrological data, offering both automated and manual modes to ensure continuous data flow, even during system disruptions. An intuitive Graphical User Interface (GUI) allows operators to monitor system performance, retrieve historical data, and generate analytical reports.

Key Features of the System

1. Automated Data Acquisition and Control

   • Hourly Data Collection: Communicates with terminal stations every hour to automatically collect water level and rainfall data, storing it in the central database.
   • Manual Data Retrieval: Enables manual data recovery from local dataloggers in case of system disruptions, ensuring no loss of critical information.
   • Ten-Minute Interval Readings: Allows for more granular insights with data collection at ten-minute intervals.

2. Database Management

   • SQL Server Database: Manages raw and validated hydrological data with screening mechanisms to identify and correct abnormal readings.
   • Backup and Recovery: Supports periodic backups of critical data and ensures easy restoration in case of failures.

3. Data Processing and Visualization

   • Graphical Reports: Generates hourly, daily, and monthly reports, and presents data as graphs or maps to support flood control and water management decisions.
   • Real-Time Monitoring: Continuously displays the status of each monitoring station, providing a live feed of hydrological conditions across the river basin.

Equipment Integration

The Sri Lanka HIS integrates advanced sensors and equipment from leading manufacturers to ensure high accuracy and reliability:

• Campbell Scientific Inc.

  • CS440-L Pressure Transducer: Measures liquid levels in rivers and reservoirs.
  • CR800 Data Logger: Captures rainfall and water level data across multiple stations.
  • CR800 & CR850 Rain Gauge: Provides precise rainfall measurements for environmental monitoring.

• Nippon Electric Instrument, Inc.

  • HM-700 Pressure Probe: Measures water levels in ground and surface water sources.
  • N-68 Tipping Bucket Rain Gauge: Delivers high-precision rainfall data, crucial for early flood warnings.

• T&D Corporation

  • WDR 7 Data Logger: Ensures reliable data logging for rainfall and water levels.

Project Impact

The implementation of the Hydrological Information System in the Kelani River Basin has delivered significant benefits to the Ministry of Irrigation:

• Enhanced Flood Management: Real-time monitoring enables early flood warnings, reducing risks for local communities.
• Optimized Water Resource Use: Accurate data aids in better decisions regarding water allocation for agriculture, urban planning, and conservation.
• Improved Disaster Preparedness: Provides critical data for timely interventions during extreme weather events, enhancing Sri Lanka’s disaster response capabilities.

Conclusion

Powerdrive Technologies has delivered a sophisticated hydrological monitoring solution, supporting sustainable water resource management in the Kelani River Basin. The Sri Lanka HIS exemplifies our commitment to precision and technological innovation in addressing environmental challenges. Our expertise in data acquisition and hydrological analysis ensures that the Government of Sri Lanka is well-equipped to manage water resources effectively and mitigate the impact of natural disasters on both rural and urban communities.