National Centre for dam safety to be set up at MNIT Jaipur

This centre will investigate the seismic risks posed by dams across the nation. The Ministry of Jal Shakti on Monday marked an MoU with an organization here to set up a public community to guarantee the security of dams from seismic tremors and other catastrophic events. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Jal Shakti Minister, stated that the central government would contribute Rs 30 crore to the establishment of the proposed centre at the Malviya National Institute of Technology (MNIT).

The new centre will be in charge of technology development related to structural and earthquake safety of all national dams, as stated in the memorandum of understanding (MoU) between MNIT and the National Dam Safety Authority of the Ministry of Jal Shakti

Shekhawat was quoted as saying in a statement that the central government is working in mission mode to ensure the safety and upkeep of dams. India has the third biggest number of dams — 6,000 — on the planet, the minister said. He went on to say that some of these dams are several hundred years old, and more than 25% of them have reached their maximum lifespan.

Shekhawat likewise hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for acquainting a regulation in 2021 with guarantees the protected working of the dams in the country. The Dam Security Act, 2021 accommodates reconnaissance, investigation, activity and support of the predefined dams for the anticipation of dam disappointment-related debacles. Reference: PTI AG RPA AQS