Koppal: The process of installing a new stop log gate at the 19th crest gate site of the Tungabhadra reservoir, which was washed away five days ago, began on Wednesday.
Two massive 80-ton cranes have been positioned on the dam bridge for this purpose. Four sets of four-foot-high iron components are being initially assembled. Three components each are under production at Hosalli in Koppal taluk, Sanklapur near Hospet, and Jindal in Torangal.
Tungabhadra Board officials inspected these three locations throughout Wednesday, urging them to expedite the work. One component from each location is now ready, and the installation of the new crest gate commenced on Wednesday.
Vijayanagar and Bellary district in-charge minister B.Z. Zameer Ahmed Khan offered prayers for the successful assembly of the gate and performed a puja in front of the 19th gate of the reservoir.
The responsible companies have produced the components, and officials and experts have collaborated on safe working procedures near the gate. According to O.R.K. Reddy, Secretary of the Tungabhadra Board, the installation process began on Wednesday.
Every year on August 15, a large crowd gathers at the reservoir to witness the water waves. Due to the gate installation, public access to the reservoir’s bottom has been completely restricted. Only authorized police and officials are permitted on the reservoir bridge.
To facilitate the gate installation, 1,00,055 cusecs of water was released from the reservoir on Wednesday evening.
Installing a temporary gate amidst rising water levels is challenging. Erecting a gate at a height of 60 feet on a vast reservoir is a daunting task, explained Kannayya Naidu, a gate expert and safety engineer.
He told the media that they are attempting to install temporary gates using cranes on both sides. A four-foot-high temporary gate will be erected initially, followed by an eight-foot-high gate. This approach could potentially contain most of the dam’s water if successful in reaching a 12-foot height. However, this is a demanding operation under flood-like conditions. He assured that while the other reservoir gates are currently in good condition, they will undergo additional inspection.
Read More : 19 Kannada Medium Schools in Karwar Face Closure Threat