Dams play a crucial role in water management and energy production, but they are also vulnerable to damages from natural disasters such as floods and cloudbursts. A recent incident involving the Chungthang dam in Sikkim highlights this vulnerability, as it was caused by a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF).
India has set an ambitious target to increase its hydropower capacity from 52GW in FY23 to 78GW by 2030. Despite recent incidents involving dam failures, the nation continues to pursue mega hydropower projects, albeit with increased caution and enhanced safety measures.
As of 2021, there have been reports of over 4,000 large dam failures across 84 countries. The most catastrophic of these was the Banqiao dam failure in China in 1975, which tragically resulted in more than 80,000 deaths. Such historical failures underline the importance of stringent safety protocols.
In response to the risks associated with dam safety, the Central Electricity Authority has established a technical committee to study potential geological impacts on hydro projects. The enactment of the Dam Safety Act in 2021 led to the creation of the National Dam Safety Authority, which oversees safety protocols. Additionally, state dam safety organizations conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Many dams across India are at significant risk due to their age and the natural hazards they face. Approximately 293 dams are over a century old, and many were constructed without modern considerations for climate change impacts. This raises concerns about their ability to withstand extreme weather events.
It is crucial to continue discussions on these topics and remain informed about the state of dam safety and the associated risks. Follow SRIRAM on social media platforms for more insights and updates.
Q1. What are the main vulnerabilities of dams in India?
Answer: Dams in India are primarily vulnerable to natural disasters like floods and cloudbursts, as highlighted by incidents such as the Chungthang dam failure due to a glacial lake outburst flood.
Q2. How is India's hydropower capacity expected to change by 2030?
Answer: India aims to increase its hydropower capacity from 52GW in FY23 to 78GW by 2030, focusing on expanding renewable energy sources while ensuring dam safety.
Q3. What measures are taken for dam safety in India?
Answer: The Dam Safety Act of 2021 established the National Dam Safety Authority, which oversees the safety of dams, while state organizations conduct regular inspections to mitigate risks.
Q4. What historical event underscores the risks of dam failures?
Answer: The Banqiao dam failure in China during 1975, which resulted in over 80,000 deaths, serves as a stark reminder of the catastrophic potential of dam failures worldwide.
Q5. How old are many of India's dams, and what risks do they face?
Answer: Approximately 293 dams in India are over a century old, many of which were built without considering climate change impacts, making them susceptible to extreme weather events.
Question 1: What recent event highlighted the vulnerabilities of dams in India?
A) Banqiao dam failure
B) Chungthang dam incident
C) Dudhwa National Park flood
D) Bhakra Nangal dam maintenance
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What is India's target for hydropower capacity by 2030?
A) 52GW
B) 60GW
C) 70GW
D) 78GW
Correct Answer: D
Question 3: Which act was enacted to enhance dam safety in India?
A) Water Safety Act
B) Dam Safety Act, 2021
C) National Water Policy
D) Environmental Protection Act
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: How many large dam failures have been reported globally as of 2021?
A) 2,000
B) 4,000
C) 5,500
D) 7,000
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What is a significant risk faced by old dams in India?
A) Lack of electricity generation
B) Vulnerability to climate change impacts
C) Insufficient funding
D) Overcapacity issues
Correct Answer: B
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