NDRF battling nature’s wrath to open jammed gate of Malana HPP stage 2
Shimla, July 26
In a heart-pounding display of courage and determination, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has embarked on a perilous mission to open the jammed gate of Malana Hydro Power Project (HPP) Stage 2 in Himachal Pradesh. Stranded residents living near the Parvati river are at risk due to the overflow of the dam caused by the gate jam, making this a race against time and nature.
Also read:Alert issued in Manikaran Valley after Malana PP dam gate snag
On July 25, 2023, the NDRF team stationed in Kullu took on the daunting challenge of reaching the Malana Dam-II to provide critical assistance to the technical staff and laborers trapped on-site. With the road leading to the dam’s control room washed away by raging waters, the NDRF team was left with no choice but to traverse the treacherous terrain on foot.
Upon reaching the dam, the NDRF team quickly assessed the situation and devised a courageous plan of action. Armed with ropes and mountaineering equipment, they braved the flooded dam to clear debris and logs obstructing the outlet, reducing the water level to make the operation safer.
Their main objective was to reach the gantry hoist/crane situated atop the dam, which had become non-functional due to a technical fault. Despite the high-risk situation, the NDRF team fearlessly roped across the channel, in tandem with the technical staff, inching closer to the gantry/crane to repair it and open the blocked gates.
However, their efforts faced a daunting setback when the base of the gantry broke, hindering their progress. Undeterred, the team persisted, attempting manual gate-opening until the onset of rain temporarily suspended the operation.
On July 26, 2023, the NDRF team are resuming their valiant efforts, further. Meanwhile keeping in view the situation, two more teams of NDRF have reached Kullu at 0130 hrs on 26/07/23, so that they can deal with any disaster situation. Under the unwavering leadership of Baljinder Singh, Commandant of 14 NDRF, the teams are exhibiting remarkable coordination and synergy to tackle the challenging situation.
Noteworthy that for the past few days, incessant rains and cloudbursts have wreaked havoc in Himachal Pradesh, leaving many communities cut off and in dire need of rescue. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, NDRF teams have been deployed to various disaster-hit areas, with one team pre-positioned in district Kullu to facilitate rapid response.
As the nation holds its breath, the NDRF continues to display unparalleled bravery and resolve, working tirelessly to avert a disaster in Himachal Pradesh.
