Patna, Aug 10: The Bihar government has accelerated the safety assessment of dams across the state, with authorities targeting completion of the evaluation process for all identified structures by December, officials said.The Water Resources Department is conducting a Comprehensive Dam Safety Evaluation (CDSE) to assess the structural condition and operational safety of the state’s dams.
Of the 32 dams covered under the exercise, detailed assessments of 19 have already been completed, while inspections of the remaining structures are underway.The State Dam Safety Committee has directed officials to complete the assessment of all dams within the set deadline.
The exercise is aimed at identifying structural weaknesses and potential risks so that preventive measures and repairs can be undertaken in time.Teams of technical experts are examining the dams on parameters including structural strength, foundation stability, water-flow capacity, gates, spillways and drainage arrangements.
Modern modelling techniques and laboratory tests are also being used as part of the evaluation.Officials are examining the condition of dam walls, gates and water-discharge channels in detail. The findings are being compiled into assessment reports, with reports for 13 dams already uploaded on the designated portal.Where deficiencies are detected, authorities will prepare plans for necessary repair and strengthening work.
The department is also examining the possibility of giving some dams additional uses beyond water management. Officials are assessing the potential for hydropower generation, particularly at dams with a height of more than 15 metres.
The government is also exploring the scope for developing tourism-related facilities around suitable dam sites while ensuring that such activities do not compromise safety.
According to the report, action plans for work at Khudapur Jheel, Kohira, Phulwaria and Upper Kewal are expected to be prepared by December.The comprehensive assessment is expected to help the state identify safety concerns at an early stage, undertake timely maintenance and improve the long-term utility of its dam infrastructure.
