Efforts are intensifying to install a new temporary gate at the Tungabhadra Dam’s 19th crust gate, which was recently washed away. In the past two days, 15 TMC feet of water have been depleted, prompting swift action to preserve the remaining water.
MLA H.R. Gaviyappa visited Hindustan Engineering Works, Hameed Engineers to inspect the ongoing construction work on the Tungabhadra Reservoir’s crust gate. He confirmed that the construction is progressing rapidly, with the installation expected to be completed soon.
Hindustan Engineering Works and Narayana Industries are assembling the gate. The successful installation of the first part of the temporary gate is critical. If the first beam can be properly lowered into the flowing water, it will significantly enhance water retention. Specifically, 10 TMC feet of water will be preserved with the initial beam placement, and an additional 10 TMC feet can be saved once the full gate assembly, which will stand 20 feet high, is completed.
This trial is set to coincide with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s visit to the dam. His arrival is scheduled at the Ginigera airstrip around 12:15 pm, after which he will proceed to the dam to oversee the progress. The Chief Minister will hold a meeting with officials at the guest house and is expected to stay until 4 pm before returning to Bangalore.
The situation marks a historical first for the Tungabhadra Dam, providing an experimental opportunity that could set a precedent for managing similar challenges in the future.
In anticipation of the Chief Minister’s visit, heavy security measures are in place. Andhra Pradesh Revenue Minister Payyavula Keshav and Irrigation Minister Nimmala Rama Naidu will also be present, contributing to the heightened security around the dam. Media access has been restricted, requiring journalists to obtain passes through the Munirabad Gate.
The maximum water level of the Tungabhadra Dam is 1,633 feet. As of Saturday night, when the 19th gate was submerged, the water level had reached this maximum. However, due to the necessity of releasing water, the level has since dropped to 1,629.26 feet, a decrease of 4 feet. The dam’s total storage capacity is 105.78 TMC feet, with current storage at 91.31 TMC feet.
This year’s water levels are similar to last year, where the reservoir held 89.26 TMC feet due to lower rainfall, allowing water for only one crop. The future availability of water for crops will depend on upcoming rainfall to replenish the reservoir, or farmers may face significant losses.
