Dam Safety in India ( UPSC Prelims)

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News Context

Researchers at IISER Bhopal have created an in-depth evaluation of the vulnerabilities caused by sedimentation in large reservoirs. This analysis utilizes data from the Central Water Commission's latest report, titled ‘Compendium on Sedimentation of Reservoirs in India’.

Key Findings on Status of Sedimentation:

• Numerous reservoirs have experienced a reduction of almost 50% in their intended storage capacity because of sedimentation.
 • Regional Variation: The Himalayan Region (HR), West Flowing Rivers, Narmada–Tapi (NT), East Flowing Rivers, and Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP) are identified as particularly vulnerable regions.
 • Consequences: Issues such as sediment starvation, diminished water security, and heightened energy deficits have arisen.

Dams in India

India ranks as the third-largest nation in terms of dam ownership, following China and the USA. As of 2023, the country is home to approximately 6000 large dams, with Maharashtra having the greatest number. The Indira Sagar Dam on the Narmada River in Madhya Pradesh holds the title for the largest reservoir by volume. A significant concern is that over 80% of these large dams are more than 25 years old.

Initiative taken to ensure Dams Safety in India

Dam Safety Act, 2021: Establishes an institutional framework comprising the National Committee on Dam Safety and the National Dam Safety Authority. At the state level, there are the State Committee on Dam Safety (SCDS) and the State Dam Safety Organization (SDSO).
 The National Register of Large Dams is maintained by the CWC.
 The Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP), specifically Phase II and III, is executed by the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation through the Central Water Commission (CWC), with financial backing from the World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.
 The Seismic Hazard Analysis Information System (SHAISYS) tool is also part of the framework.
 Additional components include the National Centre for Earthquake Safety of Dams located at MNIT Jaipur (Rajasthan), the Dam Health and Rehabilitation Monitoring Application (DHARMA), and Dam Safety Review Panels established by states.

Global steps taken to ensure Dams Safety

World Commission on Dams: Established by the World Bank and IUCN in 1998.
 International Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD): A non-governmental organization founded in 1928.
 The Indian National Committee on Large Dams (INCOLD) engages with ICOLD.