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Dam failures are invariably disastrous, particularly when they occur downstream and cause enormous losses in terms of both lives lost and property. Examine the several reasons why dams break. Give two instances of significant dam failures. (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
Causes of Dam Failures:
Examples of Large Dam Failures:
Conclusion: Dam failures, often due to a combination of structural, environmental, and geological factors, have catastrophic consequences. Ensuring robust design, regular maintenance, and thorough geological assessments are crucial to preventing such disasters.
Model Answer
Introduction
Dams play a crucial role in managing water resources and generating hydroelectric power in India. However, the safety of these structures is increasingly concerning, especially given the ageing infrastructure and extreme weather events. Dam failures can lead to catastrophic consequences, particularly downstream, resulting in devastating loss of life and property.
Causes of Dam Failures
1. Natural Causes
2. Structural Flaws
3. Human Error
4. Lack of Maintenance
5. Age of the Dam
Examples of Large Dam Failures
1. Machchhu-2 Dam Failure (1979)
On August 11, 1979, the Machchhu-2 dam in Gujarat failed due to excessive rainfall, resulting in catastrophic flooding that claimed between 1,800 to 25,000 lives.
2. Uttarakhand Glacier Burst (2021)
On February 7, 2021, a glacier burst in Uttarakhand triggered floods that damaged two dams, leading to significant loss of life and property, with over 170 people feared dead.
Conclusion
Dam failures pose serious risks to life and property, particularly in regions with aging infrastructure and extreme weather conditions. Understanding the causes—ranging from natural disasters to human error—is essential for improving dam safety and preventing future catastrophes.