Water Levels in Bhakra and Pong Dams Pose Safety Challenges
The Bhakra and Pong dams in India are facing unprecedented water levels, which are testing safety measures. The Bhakra Dam, commissioned in 1963, has a maximum reservoir level of 1,690 feet, while the Pong Dam, commissioned in 1974, has a maximum level of 1,421 feet. However, this year, both dams experienced water levels beyond their safety marks.
The Bhakra Dam’s water level reached 1,677 feet on August 14, just three feet below the designated limit. This deviation from historical trends is notable, as previous years rarely saw levels close to the limit during August. Similarly, the Pong Dam reached 1,399.65 feet on August 15, surpassing the safety mark of 1,390 feet.
The Bhakra and Pong dams are managed by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), which regulates water and power supply to several northern states in India. While these dams effectively manage monsoon waters and prevent flooding throughout the year, the high water outflow during the monsoon season can lead to massive flooding.
The BBMB plays a crucial role in maintaining the water levels of the Pong reservoir and averting potential flooding in downstream Punjab. The Bhakra Nangal and Beas Projects, operated by BBMB, have been instrumental in catalyzing the Green Revolution and contributing to agricultural irrigation in Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
The historical significance of these projects lies in their role in transforming Northern India into a prominent agricultural region. They have also prevented downstream flooding and played a crucial role in mitigating the effects of natural disasters, such as the bursting of China’s Parchu Lake in 2005.
Apart from irrigation, the BBMB has consistently exceeded power generation targets. In the fiscal year 2019-20, they generated 9,473.20 million units, surpassing the target of 9,470 million units. Additionally, the BBMB has made significant contributions to solar energy, receiving the Best Maintained Project award for Bhakra Dam, which has been functional for over 50 years.
While both the Bhakra and Pong dams have experienced high water levels in the past, the occurrences in August deviate from historical norms. This highlights the dynamic nature of these reservoirs and their response to monsoon seasons.
The current situation serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between weather patterns and water management strategies. It is essential to monitor and assess the safety measures in place to mitigate any potential risks posed by the unprecedented water levels in Bhakra and Pong dams.
