Daily Current Affairs : 9-January-2025
The Supreme Court has recently sought a response from the Centre regarding the safety of the Mullaperiyar Dam, questioning the delay in forming an expert committee as required under the Dam Safety Act of 2021. The Mullaperiyar Dam, located on the Periyar River in Kerala, is over 130 years old. Concerns about the safety of the dam have been raised by people living downstream, who fear its potential failure.
Dam Safety Act of 2021
The Dam Safety Act (DSA) of 2021 was introduced to prevent disasters caused by dam failures and to ensure that dams are safely maintained. The key objectives of the Act include:
- Preventing dam failures and related disasters.
- Providing a framework for the safe functioning of dams.
The DSA established two main bodies to ensure dam safety:
- National Committee on Dam Safety: This body develops safety policies, regulations, and standards for dams across the country.
- National Dam Safety Authority: This authority ensures that the policies of the National Committee are implemented across all states and resolves disputes related to dam safety.
At the state level, every state with significant dams has established a State Dam Safety Organization (SDSO) to monitor and ensure safety protocols. Additionally, the Dam Safety Act mandates the creation of Dam Safety Units, the preparation of Emergency Action Plans, and the regular evaluation of dam safety.
Challenges to Dam Safety in India
India has over 4,400 large dams, the third-highest number in the world. However, many of these dams face safety challenges:
- Aging Infrastructure: Numerous dams, including 227 that are over 100 years old, are at risk due to aging infrastructure.
- Maintenance Issues: Poor maintenance and inadequate monitoring often result in cracks, weaknesses, and deterioration in dams.
- Design Flaws: Some dams were designed with outdated specifications that do not meet current safety standards.
- Natural Disasters: Earthquakes, floods, and other natural events can weaken dams, making them more prone to failure.
Dam Failures in India
There have been several dam failures in India, such as the Tigra Dam failure in 1917 and the tragic Machu Dam collapse in 1979, which resulted in over 2,000 deaths. These incidents highlight the importance of improving dam safety measures.
Why Dam Safety is Crucial
With many dams aging and the risk of failures increasing, dam safety has become a priority concern:
- Aging Dams: Many dams are nearing the end of their operational lifespan, increasing the chances of failure.
- Structural Deficiencies: Many dams have outdated designs that do not meet modern safety standards.
- Lack of Resources: Several states lack the technical capacity and sufficient budgets to maintain and upgrade dam safety.
Measures Needed for Better Safety
To address these challenges, several measures need to be implemented:
- Classify Dams by Hazard Risk: Dams should be categorized based on their potential risk to human life and property.
- Regular Inspections: Continuous inspection and maintenance are essential for identifying risks early.
- Emergency Action Plans: Plans should be in place to mitigate the effects of any potential dam failure.
- Flood Warning Systems: Early warning systems can save lives in case of emergency situations.
Important Points:
- Mullaperiyar Dam: Located on the Periyar River in Kerala, it is 130 years old, and safety concerns have been raised by people living downstream.
- Dam Safety Act of 2021:
- Aims to prevent dam failures and ensure the safe functioning of dams in India.
- Establishes the National Committee on Dam Safety to create safety policies and regulations.
- National Dam Safety Authority oversees the implementation of these policies at the national level.
- Requires the creation of State Dam Safety Organizations (SDSOs) in every state with significant dams.
- Mandates the formation of Dam Safety Units, Emergency Action Plans, and regular safety evaluations.
- Challenges in Dam Safety:
- Aging Dams: Over 227 large dams in India are more than 100 years old, increasing the risk of failures.
- Poor Maintenance: Many dams suffer from inadequate maintenance, leading to structural weaknesses.
- Design Flaws: Some dams were designed with outdated or incorrect specifications.
- Natural Disasters: Events like floods, earthquakes, and heavy rainfall can weaken dams.
- Dam Failures in India:
- Historical failures include the Tigra Dam (1917) and Machu Dam (1979), which caused significant loss of life.
- Reasons for Dam Failures:
- Poor monitoring and maintenance, design flaws, natural disasters, overtopping, and sedimentation.
- Why Dam Safety is Critical:
- Aging infrastructure and structural deficiencies make dam safety a growing concern.
- Many states lack the technical capacity and budget to address dam safety issues.
- Measures Needed:
- Classify dams by hazard risk and perform regular inspections.
- Create and implement emergency action plans and flood warning systems.
- Regularly review dam safety and undertake risk assessment studies.
Why In News
The Supreme Court has sought the Centre’s response on the safety of the Mullaperiyar Dam and raised concerns over the delay in establishing an expert committee as mandated by the Dam Safety Act of 2021, emphasizing the urgent need for proper oversight to prevent potential risks associated with the dam’s aging infrastructure.
MCQs about Challenges to Dam Safety in India
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What is the main objective of the Dam Safety Act of 2021?
A. To increase the number of dams in India
B. To prevent dam failures and ensure safe functioning
C. To construct new dams across India
D. To reduce the cost of dam maintenance
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Which organization is responsible for ensuring the implementation of dam safety policies at the national level in India?
A. National Dam Safety Authority
B. Central Water Commission
C. State Dam Safety Organizations
D. National Committee on Dam Safety
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What is one of the main reasons for dam failures in India?
A. Excessive government funding for dam maintenance
B. Poor monitoring and maintenance
C. Overpopulation near dams
D. Frequent dam construction
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What is required from dam owners under the Dam Safety Act of 2021?
A. To build new dams
B. To create Emergency Action Plans and conduct safety evaluations
C. To relocate downstream populations
D. To reduce dam water levels
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