Srisailam dam safety study begins amid concerns over delay in repairs

The study approved by the Central Water Commission’s Dam Safety Review Panel will address 14 to 16 key safety concerns to ensure the dam’s stability

Hyderabad: A safety study of the Srisailam project plunge pool, approved by the Central Water Commission’s Dam Safety Review Panel, is set to begin soon. The exercise costing Rs 14.70 crore, would be supported with an immediate release of Rs 3 crore for its preliminary phase. This study will address 14 to 16 key safety concerns to ensure the dam’s stability.

A Central Design Organization team, led by Chief Engineer Vijayabhaskar, conducted an inspection to assess the structural integrity of the dam and monitor progress on critical repair works on Monday. Key areas reviewed included eroded hilly zones, the approach road, gate operations, and water retention systems. Officials provided updates on ongoing and pending safety measures, as the National Dam Safety Authority has set a deadline of May 31, 2025, for plunge pool repairs before the monsoon season. The issue has remained unresolved for over a year, prompting the AP Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu also to call for immediate repair estimates and reports for cabinet approval.

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With concerns being voiced in both the Telugu States over delayed repairs and monsoon risks, all eyes are on the AP administration and its Irrigation Department that are tasked with the responsibility of expediting the rehabilitation process.