Meghalaya Power Minister inspects ongoing DRIP works at Umiam stage-I dam

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJanuary 12, 2024

Power Minister Abu Taher Mondal on Thursday led a high-level delegation to oversee the ongoing Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) works at Umiam bridge in a bid to ensure the safety and optimal functioning of the Umiam stage-I Dam.

Mondal was accompanied by Commissioner & Secretary in-charge Power and Chairman-cum-Managing Director of MeECL Sanjay Goyal, Director Distribution, and i/c Director (Generation)

Moonstar Shangpliang and district officials from Ri Bhoi.

The site visit, which focused on the Umiam Stage-I Dam, specifically the two Spillway Bridges, aimed to assess the progress of critical DRIP works such as drilling and grouting.

During the visit, Mondal and Goyal engaged in detailed discussions with representatives from the Firm M/S ITD Cementation India Ltd to ensure adherence to engineering guidelines.

Speaking at the sidelines of the inspection, Mondal said, “The Umiam Stage-I Dam is not merely a structure of concrete and steel; it is a lifeline that powers homes, industries, and the progress of our beautiful state. Our responsibility as stewards of this vital resource is immense, and it is heartening to see the dedication of everyone involved in the Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP). The collaborative efforts between the government, our esteemed partners in the industry, and the diligent workforce on the ground are truly commendable. I am confident that with our collective efforts, we will not only ensure the safety of the dam but also pave the way for a brighter, more energy-efficient future for Meghalaya.”

One of the key outcomes of the visit was the decision to replace the existing damaged Roller Rocker Bearings, a long-overdue measure critical for the structural integrity of the spillway bridge. The responsibility for this task was assigned to ITD Cementation and M/S Sanrachana Structural Strengthening Pvt. Ltd., with explicit instructions to work collaboratively and comply with engineering standards, ensuring minimal disruption to traffic.

Recognizing the importance of traffic management around the Umiam Stage-I Dam, the Power Minister and the Commissioner & Secretary Power, Government of Meghalaya, instructed district officials to increase manpower along the road flanks in both East Khasi Hills Districts and Ri-Bhoi District. This directive aims to streamline traffic and enhance safety measures in the vicinity of the dam.

Goyal stated, “This project, under the Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP), exemplifies our collective commitment to ensuring the longevity and optimal functioning of our critical infrastructure. The meticulous work carried out by our engineering teams, in collaboration with M/S ITD Cementation India Ltd. and M/S Sanrachana Structural Strengthening Pvt. Ltd., reflects the highest standards of professionalism and expertise. The decision to replace the damaged Roller Rocker Bearings is a crucial step toward enhancing the safety and structural integrity of the spillway bridge, and I am confident in the capabilities of our collaborators to execute this task with precision.”

A statement also said that the Government of Meghalaya remains committed to the well-being of its citizens and the sustainable development of crucial infrastructure. This proactive approach underscores the government’s dedication to ensuring the longevity and efficiency of the Umiam Stage-I Dam.