The reinstallation of all 33 crest gates of the Tungabhadra dam is set to begin, with authorities confident about sourcing the required iron, thanks to the support of three steel companies in the region. Notably, JSW Steel Plant, located in the Ballari district, will play a key role in providing metal for the project.
The collaboration of JSW Steel, Narayana, and Hindusthan Engineering Works had previously helped resolve a crisis when crest gate no. 19 broke and washed away on August 10. The companies worked around the clock to install a temporary stoplog gate within a week, ensuring the issue was quickly addressed.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah recently assured farmers that the installation of the new crest gates would start soon, with Deputy Chief Minister and Water Resources Minister D.K. Shivakumar promising the work would be completed by the end of the year. A committee had earlier been formed to assess the condition of the dam, and their report confirmed the need for new crest gates.
Senior officials from the Tungabhadra Dam Board acknowledged the crucial role played by the three steel companies in the earlier installation of the temporary gate. With the latest technology, they are hopeful that the new crest gates will be built efficiently. Authorities are now awaiting the official announcement to commence the project.
