Kaohsiung completes K-line dam renovation, improving Love River water environment

Kaohsiung City's Water Resources Bureau has invested NT$11 million (approximately $340,000 USD) to upgrade the K-line drainage system in Sanmin District, replacing an aging rubber dam with modern electric gates. This significant infrastructure improvement is designed to bolster flood control capabilities and enhance the water environment along the Love River.

The original rubber dam, located near Lianxing Road, had suffered from material degradation and damage from debris over years of use. Its deteriorating condition often compromised its effectiveness in intercepting sewage and maintaining proper water levels. During flood seasons, the dam's inability to fully retract posed a risk to water flow, potentially exacerbating flooding.

The newly completed project involves the installation of three vertical lift electric gates. These gates can be operated across their full width for both sewage interception and flood discharge. The system is integrated into the city's flood control monitoring platform, allowing operators to track water levels in real-time and remotely control the gates' opening and closing. This technological upgrade significantly improves the efficiency of drainage management, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.

Officials highlighted that the upgraded facility serves a dual purpose: flood prevention and water quality improvement. During dry periods, the gates can effectively block domestic sewage, directing it to treatment systems and reducing the amount of untreated wastewater flowing into the Love River. This contributes to the ongoing efforts to improve the river's water quality. Furthermore, the system's flexibility allows for adaptive drainage control based on rainfall and water levels, strengthening flood resilience in the Sanmin District and the surrounding urban areas.