Nagarjuna Sagar Project faces structural issues with potholes on spillway

A critical concern for the project authorities is the formation of potholes on the project spillway. These potholes, varying in depth from 1 to 6 meters, may threaten the structural integrity of the dam. If not promptly and properly repaired, they could worsen over time, potentially compromising the dam's capacity to manage water flow efficiently.

Hyderabad: After experiencing two years of poor inflows, Nagarjuna Sagar Project is now facing the issues that come with abundant water flows. For the last six months, the project has been continuously releasing floodwaters after retaining as much as possible to maintain its gross storage levels. This has had a considerable impact on the spillways.

A pressing issue before the project authorities is the appearance of potholes on the Project spillway. These potholes, ranging from 1 to 6 meters deep, could pose a risk to the structural integrity of the dam. If not addressed promptly and properly, they could lead to further deterioration and potentially compromise the dam’s ability to manage water flow effectively.

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The crest gates have been releasing excess flood flows downstream, with volumes reaching up to 4.2 lakh cusecs at times this year, primarily due to heavy outflows from the upstream Srisailam reservoir. This increase in water levels has provided much-needed relief to the regions relying on the project for irrigation and water supply.

The irrigation authorities, who once played a proactive role in attending to such situations during the BRS’s tenure, are now facing issues. Two main factors have impacted the project’s upkeep and maintenance. The green channel maintained by the previous BRS government, which ensured funds for emergencies, has almost gone dry. Without adequate funds, major agencies are showing little interest in addressing the spillway issue.

After State bifurcation, the project was handed over to Telangana with total operational control, while the Srisailam project was handed over to Andhra Pradesh for maintenance. However, the status of NSP is no longer the same. The project witnessed an ugly face-off between AP and Telangana security forces on October 28, 2023, leading to CRPF deployment at the project site. This resulted in partial control being vested to the KRMB. Telangana officials have been deprived of free access to the AP stretch of the project.

Many security outposts and CCTV cameras that were destroyed that day have not been restored so far. Experts have emphasized the need for immediate repairs, including air water jet cleaning, grouting, drilling, and chemical treatment of concrete structures to enhance their soundness. Proper execution of these procedures is crucial to ensure long-lasting results and prevent further damage. However, the availability of funds remains a critical issue.