Kurnool: Concern over the Srisailam Dam's downstream apron remains unaddressed despite regular visits from dam safety authorities. There is increasing clamour for repairs to the reservoir to ensure safety.
Every year, the release of large volumes of water raises fears of huge damage. Still, the authorities take things easy. Funds allocated under the DRIP-2 scheme have not been effectively utilized for necessary repairs.
The phase 2 of the Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) scheme, a part of a central government initiative with World Bank assistance, was intended to address these issues. This envisaged a cost-sharing arrangement of 70:30 between the central and state government.
However, the funds allocated for maintenance are far below the requirement. Some `3 crore to `4 crore is proposed annually for the maintenance, but what is released is around `1 crore or less, year after year.
The Srisailam project was initially launched as a power project in 1960. It faced delays and the main dam was completed two decades later -- in 1980. In 2020, an expert panel visited the dam and provided recommendations for its upkeep.
This visit was followed by annual inspections from the national and state safety teams, which keppt suggesting improvements. Yet, too little has been done.
For instance, proposals worth `700 crore were submitted some time ago to strengthen the apron at gates 6, 7, 8 and 9 and to cover the plunge pool with concrete. Yet, there was neither the administrative sanction nor any action on the ground.
In February last, a team from the national dam safety authority and the central water commission conducted a detailed study of the dam. According to chief engineer Kabir Basha, the team concentrated on the plunge pool's condition, highlighting concerns about a significant pit in front of the dam.
A proposed budget of `135 crore was suggested for essential safety repairs.
With the reservoir now full due to heavy rains, doubts about the plunge pool’s efficacy have resurfaced. However, dam officials assert there is no immediate cause for concern, but stress that the apron needs be strengthened in anticipation of future flood flows.
Farmers and local activists are urging the government to prioritize the safety and maintenance of the Srisailam Dam that is crucial for providing irrigation and drinking water to the region.
