Gujarat Orders Inspection Of 200 Dams After Bridge Collapse
Gujarat government has initiated a comprehensive inspection of all 200 small and large dams following the recent collapse of the Gambhira bridge in Vadodara. This crucial decision, taken at a high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Minister, underscores a proactive approach to infrastructure safety. The Irrigation Department has been directed to thoroughly assess the condition of these vital water bodies and promptly undertake necessary repair work, ensuring public safety and robust water management across the state amidst the ongoing monsoon season, preventing future mishaps.
This dam inspection comes in the wake of extensive checks on other critical infrastructure across the state. The Roads and Buildings department has already inspected over 1,800 bridges, leading to the precautionary closure of 133 identified as potentially unsafe. Concurrently, more than 1.19 lakh kilometers of roads have undergone inspection, with the government reporting that 57 percent of necessary repairs have been completed and 70 percent of potholes have been fixed. The administration has also issued notices to contractors responsible for damaged roads that remain under their defect liability period, reinforcing accountability for construction quality.
In related news, the water level at the Sardar Sarovar Narmada Dam has significantly risen, reaching 120.74 meters on Wednesday. This marks the first time this monsoon season that the dam’s water level has exceeded the 120-meter mark. The increase is attributed to substantial rainfall in the dam’s upstream catchment areas and the continuous operation of power stations at dams located in Madhya Pradesh. The Narmada Dam experienced an impressive inflow of 70,451 cusecs, resulting in its water level increasing by 68 centimeters in the last 24 hours, which is a positive indicator for the state’s water reserves.
This statewide dam inspection reflects Gujarat’s commitment to prioritizing infrastructure safety and disaster preparedness. Ensuring the integrity of vital water resources is essential for public welfare and economic stability. Such proactive measures reinforce the state’s dedication to sustainable development, safeguarding communities against potential hazards and bolstering overall regional resilience.
