Shillong, January 12 : In a decisive move to safeguard its hydropower lifeline, the Meghalaya government led by Power Minister Abu Taher Mondal conducted a high-level inspection of the Umiam Stage-I Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) on January 11, 2024.
Accompanied by Sanjay Goyal, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary to the Power Department and Chairman-cum-Managing Director of MeECL, and other key officials, the Minister assessed the progress of critical DRIP works, particularly drilling and grouting on the two spillway bridges.
Prioritizing safety and adherence to engineering guidelines, the visit facilitated in-depth discussions with representatives from M/S ITD Cementation India Ltd. This collaboration aimed to ensure the dam’s optimal functioning and longevity.
“The Umiam Stage-I Dam is not just a structure; it’s the lifeblood of our state,” declared Minister Mondal. “I commend everyone involved in DRIP for their dedication. Together, we’ll guarantee the dam’s safety and pave the way for a brighter, energy-efficient future.”
The inspection yielded a crucial decision: replacing the damaged Roller Rocker Bearings on the spillway bridge – a long-overdue measure for structural integrity. Responsibility for this upgrade was assigned to ITD Cementation and M/S Sanrachana Structural Strengthening Pvt. Ltd., emphasizing collaboration and engineering compliance.
Recognizing the importance of traffic flow, the Minister and Commissioner Goyal instructed Ri-Bhoi and East Khasi Hills district officials to increase manpower along the dam’s access roads. This proactive measure aims to streamline traffic and enhance safety around the vital infrastructure.
“DRIP exemplifies our commitment to infrastructure longevity,” stated Commissioner Goyal. “The meticulous work by our teams and collaborators reflects the highest standards. The Roller Rocker Bearing replacement is a critical step towards enhanced safety, and I trust our partners to execute it with precision.”
The Meghalaya government’s proactive approach to dam safety and efficiency through DRIP underscores its dedication to the well-being of its citizens and the sustainable development of its crucial infrastructure. This inspection marks a significant step towards ensuring the Umiam Stage-I Dam remains a reliable source of power for generations to come.
