India is the world's third-largest dam builder, with more than 6,300 big dams. These buildings are essential for flood control, hydropower, irrigation, and water supply. But as of 2025, the country is confronted with a variety of dam management issues, including safety issues, geopolitical conflicts, and hazards associated with climate change.
115.1) National Dam Safety and Rehabilitation Efforts
India has taken important steps in recognition of the vital need of dam safety, including:
1) The goal of the world's largest dam repair initiative, the Dam repair and Improvement Project (DRIP), is to improve the performance and safety of already-existing dams.
2) The 2021 Dam Safety Act: This act, which was passed in order to create a comprehensive framework for dam safety, gave rise to the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA), which is in charge of monitoring dam safety policies and procedures nationwide.
115.2) Regional Developments and Challenges
1) Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP) in Arunachal Pradesh
China's upstream dam construction on the Yarlung Tsangpo River is intended to be countered by the proposed 11,000 MW SUMP. The project has generated a lot of opposition and protests, even though over 70% of the local populace supports it because of its strategic and energy benefits.
2) Karnataka: Upkeep of the Tungabhadra Dam
The Tungabhadra reservoir's storage capacity has been temporarily restricted to 80 TMCFT due to safety concerns. With plans to repair more gates over the next 15 months, this reduction makes it easier to replace a compromised Crest gate.
3) Maharashtra: Pune's Preparedness for Floods
Authorities in Pune are getting ready for possible water releases from the Khadakwasla dam as a result of the early monsoon season. Plans for evacuation are in place to safeguard residents and current infrastructure projects in flood-prone locations, such as Ektanagari, which saw severe floods in 2024.
4) Gujarat: Project for Ajwa Reservoir Barrage
A new barrage is planned downstream of the Ajwa reservoir to reduce urban flooding in Vadodara. The project is expected to start after the monsoon season and is predicted to cost ₹100 crore. Its goal is to control the surplus water flow into the Vishwamitri river.
5) Odisha: All-inclusive Flood Control
For the monsoon season of 2025, the Water Resources Department of Odisha has started a thorough flood preparedness strategy. Public safety measures include embankment inspections, emergency resource mobilisation, and round-the-clock control rooms.
115.3) Geopolitical Implications: Indus Water Treaty Suspension
In April 2025, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan in retaliation to a terrible incident in Pahalgam. India then started improving its ability to store and regulate water on rivers such as the Chenab and Jhelum, which has caused Pakistan to worry about possible water shortages.
115.4) Conclusion
At this crucial point, India's dams must strike a balance between the needs of environmental sustainability, safety, and development. The nation's dedication to tackling these issues is demonstrated by ongoing restoration projects, legislative actions, and regional efforts. Nonetheless, the nation's dam operations require ongoing attention and flexible management due to geopolitical concerns and climate variability.
Team Yuva Aaveg-
Adarsh Tiwari
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References:
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"[PDF] DAM SAFETY 2025 - Central Board Of Irrigation And Power"
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"India prepares dams to store more water, lines up multiple actions to ..."
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