After serving for nearly seven decades, the crest gates of the Tungabhadra Dam are being replaced. A total of 33 old gates are being dismantled and new ones installed as part of a major renovation project. Built in 1953, the Tungabhadra project supplies irrigation water to about 12.10 lakh acres across Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh and provides drinking water to lakhs of people.
70 Years of Service:
Since its commissioning, the dam’s gates functioned continuously for over 70 years, far exceeding the usual lifespan of around 45 years for such structures. Mechanical Advisor to the State Government, Kannayya Naidu, noted that this long service record is remarkable. However, concerns arose after one of the gates was washed away in August last year.
₹52-Crore Tenders Issued:
Following detailed inspections and expert assessments, it was recommended that all gates be replaced. The Tungabhadra Board subsequently floated tenders worth ₹52 crore for the work, to be funded jointly by the Karnataka and Telangana governments. While modern projects use radial gates, the Tungabhadra system continues with chain-operated gates, similar to large bicycle chains.
33 New Gates to Be Installed:
Earlier studies had already pointed out the need to replace the chain systems installed decades ago, though the recommendations were not acted upon then. Now, all 33 gates are being replaced, retaining the chain-operated mechanism.
Funding Requests and Project Impact:
An April study revealed that the gates’ efficiency had deteriorated by nearly 70 percent, forcing reduced water storage until the Kharif season. During the current Rabi season, gate replacement work is underway without supplying irrigation water to the ayacut. The Tungabhadra Board has sought ₹37.67 crore from the Andhra Pradesh government for gate replacement and ₹37.79 crore for related works, amounting to ₹75.46 crore.
Work Progress:
Prioritising dam safety, the state government released ₹20 crore at the end of last month. After clearing contractor dues, dismantling of the old gates began. With the current water level at 1,619.47 feet, four gates have been partially removed.Fabrication Update:
Once the water level is lowered to the crest level of 1,613 feet, complete removal and installation will proceed. Fabrication of 14 new gates has already been completed, and materials for the remaining gates are reaching the project site.