NDSA Flags Safety Lapses at Bargi Dam

The National Dam Safety Authority has issued a stern show-cause notice to the Narmada Valley Development Authority over serious safety lapses at the Bargi Dam in Madhya Pradesh’s Jabalpur district. The notice highlights alleged violations of the Dam Safety Act, 2021, and warns that continued non-compliance could pose grave risks to public safety in downstream areas.

Notice Issued After Joint Inspection

The action followed a recent inspection and record review conducted by a joint team of officials from the National Dam Safety Authority and the Central Water Commission. The inspection found that the Bargi Dam, classified as a ‘Specified Dam’ under the law, suffers from long-standing technical and managerial deficiencies that have not been adequately addressed by the Narmada Valley Development Authority.

Persistent Leakage Raises Structural Concerns

One of the most serious issues identified is continuous heavy leakage from the masonry spillway gallery of the Bargi Dam. The authority noted that this problem was first flagged by the Central Water Commission as early as April 6, 1988. Despite repeated reporting since 2018, no effective remedial measures have been implemented. The NDSA warned that prolonged leakage could weaken the dam’s foundation and structural integrity, potentially triggering a major disaster affecting downstream populations.

Monitoring and Security Deficiencies

The inspection also revealed the absence of a comprehensive instrumentation system to monitor seepage, stress parameters, and overall structural health. The NDSA stressed that such systems are essential for modern dam management, especially for ageing infrastructure. In addition, serious security lapses were observed, including unrestricted access to sensitive areas like the gallery, which the authority termed unacceptable for critical infrastructure.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• The Dam Safety Act, 2021 provides a legal framework for dam surveillance and safety.
• The National Dam Safety Authority functions under the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
• Specified Dams are those whose failure could cause significant loss of life or property.
• Instrumentation systems are vital for monitoring dam health and seepage behaviour.

Legal Warning and Wider Implications

Despite the gravity of the findings, the dam was reportedly categorised under Safety Category III, indicating minor deficiencies, a classification the NDSA called grossly misleading. The notice directs the NVDA to respond within 30 days, failing which action may be initiated under Sections 41 and 42 of the Act, including penal provisions. As a key multipurpose project on the Narmada River, the Bargi Dam is vital for irrigation, water supply, and power generation, making its safety a matter of national concern.