The Himachal Pradesh government has discovered safety norm violations in 21 of the state’s 23 dams and has expressed intentions to take legal actions against the respective managements.
This alarming lack of adherence is, in part, attributed to insufficient oversight by governmental monitoring agencies.
Prabodh Saxena, Chief Secretary of the state, disclosed to PTI, “A significant number of 21 dams have ignored safety protocols, and they will face legal repercussions for this neglect.” Additionally, he mentioned that officers have been assigned to compile a comprehensive report on the potential damages ensuing from the dam authorities’ negligence.
The dams under scrutiny include Larji hydropower project in Mandi and Jateon in Sirmaur, managed by the HP State Electricity Board, and the Sawra Kuddu project in Shimla and Sainj in Kullu operated by the HP Power Corporation.
The state has 23 hydropower projects, boasting a combined capacity of 9,203 MW, which are operated by various entities such as NHPC, NTPC, BBMB, SJVNL, and IPP. There are an additional six projects, with a 1,916 MW capacity, currently under development.
In contrast, only two projects – Kol Dam in Bilaspur and the Karcham Wangtoo project in Kinnaur – were found adhering to water release protocols.
