The recent recommendation from the Dam Safety Organisation of the Central Water Commission (CWC) to replace the floodgates of Bhadar Dam, damaged during the flash flood of 2015, has brought focus back on India’s dam safety and flood management measures. The Bhadar Dam, located in Rajkot, is the second largest in Saurashtra region, Gujarat, after Shetrunji dam.
About Bhadar Dam
Bhadar Dam occupies a unique position in the Saurashtra region as it is situated on the Bhadar River. Due to its location, it plays an integral role in providing water resources to the area.
Bhadar River: A Geographical Overview
Bhadar River is one of the primary rivers of the Kathiawar or Saurashtra peninsula in Gujarat. It originates near Vaddi in Rajkot district at an elevation of 261 m above mean sea level, traverses through the Saurashtra region and finally merges with Arabian sea at Naviobandar in Porbandar. The total expanse of this river from source to mouth is 198 km. It drains about one-seventh of the area of Saurashtra, thus playing a pivotal role in the water supply system of the region.
Flash Flood: An Elucidation
Flash floods are typically associated with rapid, high-intensity rainstorms leading to sudden surges in water levels during or following an intense spell of rain. These localised events of short duration usually peak very quickly, within less than six hours between the occurrence of rainfall and peak flood. The impact of such floods often exacerbates due to blocked drainage lines or illegal encroachments obstructing the natural flow of water.
Central Water Commission (CWC): An Overview
A key player in the country’s water resources management scenario, the Central Water Commission (CWC) is the apex technical organisation under the wing of the Ministry of Water Resources. The Commission’s role and responsibilities goes far and beyond just policy framing. It initiates, coordinates and furthers, in consultation with State Governments, schemes for control, conservation, development and utilization of water resources throughout the country. This is done keeping in mind diverse needs such as irrigation, flood management, power generation, navigation, among others.
Floodgate Replacement in Bhadar Dam: The Recent Development
The Dam Safety Organisation of the CWC has recently recommended the replacement of floodgates of the Bhadar Dam. This is in response to the damage sustained by the dam during the devastating flash flood of 2015. The proposed repair or replacement is critical to ensure the dam’s structural integrity and to prevent any potential disasters in the future. However, this measure also underscores the need for the implementation of stringent dam safety regulations and timely maintenance work to mitigate any future risks associated with flash floods.