News, March 2025

Working Visit of ALBCOLD team to the Japan for Experience Exchange in the Dam sector.

From the period March 24 to March 29 a Team from Albanian Committee Of Large Dam (ALBCOLD), participated in a professional experience exchange visit to Japan, hosted by the Japanese Committee on Large Dams (JCOLD). This visit was as part of our ongoing commitment to capacity building and international cooperation in the field of water resources and dam engineering. The visit took place over the course of one week and provided a unique opportunity to deepen our understanding of Japan’s dam infrastructure, regulatory framework, and engineering practices, while also engaging in meaningful cultural exchange.

1. Visit to JCOLD Headquarters – Tokyo
The technical program commenced with a formal welcome at the JCOLD headquarters in Tokyo. From JCOLD, In this meeting was present President of JCOLD – Dr. Hideki Hirai, vice -president of JCOLD – Mr. Takashi Tada, Managing Director of JCOLD – Dr. Masayuki Kashiwayanagi and General Secretary of JCOLD – Dr. Hiroaki Niguchi. JCOLD, one of the most respected national committees within the International Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD), shared insights into their organizational structure, history, and core objectives. The primary mission of JCOLD is to promote the safe design, construction, and maintenance of dams in Japan, as well as to facilitate knowledge-sharing domestic and internationally.
A comprehensive session was held to discuss the national codes and regulations governing dam safety and operation in Japan. In this Session was present the vice-President of ICOLD, Prof. Dr. Tetsuya Sumi and representatives of Ministry of Land,Infrastructure,Transport and Tourism(MILT) Topics covered included seismic design standards, sedimentation management, and inspection protocols. JCOLD emphasized their focus on balancing technical excellence with environmental sustainability and social impact mitigation.
During this session, we presented an overview of our dam infrastructure, including regulatory frameworks, monitoring systems, and current challenges.

• Large Dams and Reservoirs in Albania presented by Dr. Miriam Ndini – KTPD/ALBCOLD
• Large Dams and earthquakes in Albania – presented by Prof. Llambro Duni – ALBCOLD
• Albanian Power Corporation and Drini river Cascade presented by Mr. Ermal Nuri-APC

2. Meeting with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism
The ALBCOLD Team had the opportunity to visit the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MILT), where officials provided an overview of the national energy strategy, particularly the role of hydro power in Japan’s diversified energy production.
The discussions touched upon dam safety governance, disaster preparedness (especially post-earthquake response), and the integration of smart technologies in dams.

3. Site Visits to Dams and Pumping Storage Systems
A central part of the technical visit was a tour of three dam sites, each offering different engineering features and functions:
• Dam 1: Amagase Dam. Located in a mountainous region, this dam was notable for its robust concrete structure, earthquake-resistant design, and multipurpose role.
• Dam 2: Kisenyama P.S. & Dam. Rockfill Combined Gravity and Embankment Dam with Pumping storage Station. This hybrid structure showcased innovative water management strategies, particularly during dry seasons. The adjacent pumping storage system highlighted efficient water transfer systems.
• Dam 3: Hiyoshi Dam. Concrete gravity dam. This smaller-scale gravity dam, situated closer to an urban center, emphasized community integration, with flood control infrastructure doubling as a public space.
Each visit included technical presentations, guided tours by on-site engineers, and open discussions on challenges such as climate resilience and sedimentation control.

4. Cultural Engagement and Tradition
Beyond the technical agenda, the visit included moments to engage with Japanese culture and traditions. From joining a traditional tea ceremony and visiting historical temples, to experiencing Japanese hospitality and cuisine, the delegation gained valuable cultural context. This experience enriched the professional exchange, fostering a deeper appreciation for how culture influences engineering practices, decision-making, and long-term infrastructure stewardship in Japan.
The visit to Japan and experience exchange with JCOLD and associated institutions offered valuable professional insights and strengthened international ties. Exposure to Japan’s dam engineering standards, operational practices, and forward-looking energy strategies provided inspiration and practical knowledge applicable to our own projects. This experience will inform future initiatives and help align our practices with globally recognized standards of excellence.