The National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) is expected to submit its final report on the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Scheme (KLIS) by December 2024. However, the report will exclude geo-technical tests, a critical aspect initially requested by the NDSA from the state government.
Importance of the NDSA Report
The report is crucial for the state government, as decisions regarding the future of KLIS heavily depend on expert recommendations. The findings will also influence the ongoing investigation by the PC Ghose Commission into allegations of irregularities in the project.
Geo-Technical Tests: A Missed Component
- Initial Request: The NDSA had asked the state government to conduct geo-technical tests to gather data on the Medigadda barrage’s structural integrity.
- State Government’s Reluctance:
- The state government declined to conduct these tests, arguing that grouting works were performed after the Medigadda barrage collapsed.
- Authorities believed that reinforced concrete works would leave no trace of potential structural issues.
- Impact on Reporting: Due to the lack of geo-technical data, the NDSA informed the PC Ghose Commission in November that it could not complete the report.
Concerns Over Structural Risks
- Annaram and Sundilla Barrages:
- These barrages are key components of KLIS.
- The NDSA cautioned against storing water in these barrages due to potential structural risks.
- Despite warnings, the state government plans to store 5 TMCFT of water for upstream pumping.
- Technology Concerns: The barrages were constructed using the same technology as the Medigadda barrage, which had previously collapsed, raising concerns about their stability.
NDSA’s Role Under New Government
After the Congress party assumed office, it tasked the NDSA with preparing a comprehensive report on the structural stability of KLIS. The report will include recommendations for necessary measures to ensure the project’s safety and reliability.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
1. When is the NDSA expected to submit its final report on KLIS?
- A) October 2024
- B) November 2024
- C) December 2024
- D) January 2025
Answer: C) December 2024
2. What key aspect is excluded from the NDSA’s final report on KLIS?
- A) Structural stability analysis
- B) Geo-technical tests
- C) Water storage capacity
- D) Environmental impact
Answer: B) Geo-technical tests
3. Why did the state government decline to conduct geo-technical tests on the Medigadda barrage?
- A) Lack of funds
- B) Belief that grouting and reinforced concrete works would leave no traces
- C) Time constraints
- D) Opposition from local authorities
Answer: B) Belief that grouting and reinforced concrete works would leave no traces
4. What risk did the NDSA highlight regarding the Annaram and Sundilla barrages?
- A) Environmental damage
- B) Structural risks similar to Medigadda barrage
- C) Insufficient water storage capacity
- D) Legal challenges
Answer: B) Structural risks similar to Medigadda barrage
5. Which commission is investigating allegations of irregularities in KLIS?
- A) PC Ghose Commission
- B) NITI Aayog
- C) Water Resources Commission
- D) Central Vigilance Commission
Answer: A) PC Ghose Commission
6. What directive did the Congress government give to the NDSA regarding KLIS?
- A) Halt the project entirely
- B) Submit a comprehensive report on structural stability
- C) Conduct environmental impact studies
- D) Increase water storage capacity in barrages
Answer: B) Submit a comprehensive report on structural stability