Emergency Action Plan (EAP) implementation is a key requirement under dam safety regulations, which Nam Theun 1 Power Company Limited (NT1PC) strictly follows. Each year, NT1PC conducts EAP dissemination and evacuation drills for eight downstream villages to ensure communities are well-prepared to respond in case of an emergency—helping minimize risks to lives and property.
This year, the activities began on 22 June 2025, with EAP dissemination and drill preparation sessions conducted for government partners at all levels. Participants included the Department of Energy Safety Management (Ministry of Energy and Mines), the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment), the Bolikhamxay Provincial and Pakkading District Safety Management Committees, as well as district military commanders. These sessions helped ensure a shared understanding of emergency protocols before engaging with the communities.
From 23–25 June, NT1PC and government partners formed two working teams to deliver EAP dissemination in seven downstream villages across Pakkading District, Bolikhamxay Province. Community members received essential information, including emergency alert levels, how to follow official communication channels, evacuation procedures, and the locations of designated safe zones. Each session also included a Q&A segment, giving villagers the opportunity to clarify their understanding and actively engage with the information provided.
On 26 June, both working groups came together for a full-scale dissemination and evacuation drill in Pakkading Tai Village. The drill simulated an earthquake that caused serious structural damage to the dam, requiring rapid water discharge and triggering downstream flooding. The scenario showed emergency communication between NT1PC, central authorities, and local government units, ensuring timely evacuation. Villagers then participated in a coordinated evacuation to the designated safe zone.
Throughout the four-day event, it was clear that communities were highly engaged and increasingly aware of emergency procedures. Many villagers showed understanding of key topics such as how to monitor water levels, trust official information sources, and evacuate promptly when needed.
This ongoing effort reflects NT1PC’s strong commitment to dam safety and to building confidence and resilience in the downstream communities we serve.