Silt Jams gates at Pandoh Dam in Mandi, Efforts underway to resolve issue

Himachalscape bureau Published: August 3, 2024 | Updated: August 3, 2024 3 minutes read

Shimla, Aug 3,

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Also read:NDRF battling nature’s wrath to open jammed gate of Malana HPP stage 2 About the Author Himachalscape bureau

The Pandoh Dam, managed by BBMB, is facing operational challenges as two of its gates have jammed due to silt accumulation, preventing adequate water discharge.

In addition, significant amounts of wood and other debris have reportedly obstructed the entrance to the tunnel connecting Pandoh Dam to Baggi, resulting in reduced water flow into the tunnel.

BBMB Chairman Manoj Tripathi, along with a team of employees and machinery, is onsite overseeing efforts to open the jammed gates. The situation is being closely monitored to mitigate potential risks if the gates remain closed for an extended period.

Chief Engineer BSL Project BBMB Sundarnagar, Sanjeev Dutt Sharma, assured the public that there is no need for alarm. He confirmed that sufficient machinery is available to address the issue and the gates will be opened shortly. He added that, despite the two gates being closed, three other gates are functioning and are currently managing the water discharge. The inflow of water into the dam is being effectively managed by these operational gates.

Sharma explained that the gate jamming occurred due to unexpected silt accumulation following a cloudburst on August 1, which caused flash floods and filled the dam with 30 feet of silt within half an hour. Initial manual efforts to open the gates were unsuccessful, but with the arrival of machinery, the problem is expected to be resolved soon.

SDM Mandi also visited the dam site to assess the situation and reassured the public that the BBMB will resolve the issue promptly.

Unconfirmed media reports suggest that the reduced water flow from Pandoh Dam has impacted power generation at the Salapad Power House.

Also read:NDRF battling nature’s wrath to open jammed gate of Malana HPP stage 2

Noteworthy that in 2023, gates of another hydel project located at Malana II had got jammed, and had caused significant threat downstream due to heavy rains.

The Himachal Pradesh Dam Safety Act plays a crucial role in such situations, providing a robust framework for ensuring the structural and operational integrity of dams across the state.

Under the Act, regular inspections and maintenance are mandated to prevent and address issues like siltation, which can compromise dam operations.

The Act also emphasizes the importance of emergency preparedness and response, ensuring that any potential threats to public safety are swiftly managed.

In light of the Act, the BBMB’s prompt action in mobilizing machinery and coordinating with local authorities underscores their commitment to dam safety and public reassurance.

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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.

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