Tricity
Bhakra Dam tilt sparks emergency IIT study, chief says no threat
A 63-year-old Bhakra Dam has tilted beyond its safety limit, prompting a ₹4.3 crore IIT Roorkee study as officials assure the public of no danger.
Bhakra Dam, one of the country’s oldest gravity dams, has shown a slight outward tilt. Recent measurements indicate a deflection of 1.77 inches, which exceeds the permissible 1.03-inch limit. The development has triggered an emergency response, with the chief confirming that there is no immediate danger to the structure.
In response, the government has commissioned a ₹4.3‑crore study by IIT Roorkee to examine the tilt and assess any underlying risks. The investigation will employ advanced monitoring techniques and involve experts from various disciplines. Officials say the study is part of routine safety protocols for critical infrastructure.
The dam, built in the 1960s, remains a vital source of water, power and irrigation for the region. Its structural health is closely watched by engineers and policymakers alike. While the tilt is modest, authorities are treating the matter with the seriousness it deserves.
The chief’s assurance that the situation is under control aims to calm public concerns. Nonetheless, the incident underscores the importance of continuous monitoring of aging infrastructure. The findings of the IIT Roorkee study are expected to inform future maintenance decisions.
Source: source
