Fri Apr 25 14:41:09 UTC 2025: ## National Dam Safety Authority Recommends Reconstruction of Damaged Kaleshwaram Barrage Block
**Hyderabad, April 25, 2025** – The National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) has issued a final report recommending the complete removal and reconstruction of Block-7 of the Medigadda Barrage, part of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP) in Telangana. The recommendation follows the discovery of significant damage, including sinking piers and large cracks, in October 2023.
The NDSA report cites numerous deficiencies in the design, construction, and maintenance of not only Block-7, but also the Annaram and Sundilla barrages within the KLIP. These deficiencies, the report states, stem from inadequate planning, substandard quality control, and alterations made during construction without proper geo-technical investigation. The report specifically highlights the failure to adhere to quality norms and structural guidelines in the construction of secant piles, leading to the sinking of piers. Furthermore, compromises in upstream and downstream cut-off walls and a disregard for interim report recommendations also contributed to the damage.
The report also criticizes the construction of the barrages while the KLIP’s detailed project report was still under review by the Central Water Commission and other agencies. The NDSA believes that repairs to Block-7 are infeasible and that complete dismantling is necessary to prevent further damage to adjacent blocks. A comprehensive re-examination of the design standards for all three barrages is also recommended to ensure their long-term safety and longevity. The report has been submitted to the Telangana State government.
First Piper 