The retrofitting construction work on the Umiam Dam is expected to be completed by the end of July, with load restrictions set to be imposed to prevent further damage, announced Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL) CMD, Sanjay Goyal, on June 21.
Goyal reported that work on one side of the dam has been completed, while concrete work on the other side is still underway. Additionally, there is some pending work beneath the dam that needs to be addressed.
To safeguard the dam’s structural integrity, load restrictions will be imposed. Goyal mentioned that the specifics of these restrictions will be disclosed following consultations with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Guwahati.
In a bid to enforce these restrictions, CCTV cameras have been installed to monitor and prevent heavy vehicles from crossing the dam.
Goyal also revealed that the Meghalaya government has allocated approximately Rs 24-25 crore for the dam’s construction work. The Central Water Commission and Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) are overseeing the entire project, including the retrofitting work.
This initiative is a crucial step towards ensuring the safety and longevity of the Umiam Dam, a vital infrastructure asset for Meghalaya.