Srisailam project’s plunge pool needs immediate repairs: NDSA

Authority Chairman advises conducting geological studies and dam break analysis to assess the dam's stability

Hyderabad: Immediate repairs to the plunge pool of the Srisailam project was stressed by Irrigation officials of Telangana during their discussions with National Dam Safety Authority Chairman Anil Jain at Walamtari on Wednesday.

They also tried to impress upon him the need of direct access to the Nagarjuna Sagar project for addressing its issues from time to time and to attend in case of emergencies.

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Jain conducted an inspection of the Srisailam dam and held discussions with irrigation officials from both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to address pressing structural issues. The primary focus was on immediate repairs to the plunge pool, which has a concerning void threatening the dam’s stability.

During his visit, Jain stressed the necessity of completing the repairs by May 31, ahead of the monsoon season, to prevent further erosion and scouring. He recommended filling the plunge pool void with cement concrete tetrapods to enhance energy dissipation and reduce erosion. Jain further advised conducting geological studies and dam break analysis to assess the dam’s stability, especially considering the 143-foot-deep hole in the plunge pool.

Officials from Telangana emphasized that issues with the Srisailam Dam could cascade to the Nagarjuna Sagar Project. They requested unrestricted access to the Nagarjuna Sagar site, which is currently under Telangana’s operational control but requires permissions from the Krishna River Management Board (KRMB) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). However, Jain did not support their request.

The Andhra Pradesh government proposed carrying out the repairs with financial support from the World Bank. Jain reminded both states of the joint responsibility for the dam, with Andhra Pradesh tasked with its maintenance and upkeep. He directed Andhra Pradesh officials to submit detailed reports on the repairs within 30 days. Telangana representatives indicated that seeking an alternative agency for effective rehabilitation work could be an option if delays persisted.

Jain also suggested a coordinated action plan, incorporating both immediate measures and long-term solutions. This could include constructing a dyke or cofferdam downstream to raise tailwater levels and reduce scour.