UMIAM DAM

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Context

Warning issued by the Office of the Deputy Commissioner (DC) in Ri Bhoi district, Meghalaya, regarding the rising water level of Umiam Dam.

Details

• The Office of the Deputy Commissioner (DC) in Ri Bhoi district, Meghalaya has issued a warning regarding the rising water level of Umiam Dam.
• The water level reached 3205.75 feet as of July 14, prompting concerns about potential flooding.

Warning and Cautionary Measures

• The administration has cautioned residents living downstream of Umiam Dam.
• Strong advice is given to stay away from streams, drains, and culverts.
• Water may be released if the reservoir's level continues to rise, posing risks to affected areas.

Preparing for a Flood

• The DC's office emphasizes the need for necessary precautions in the event of a flood.
• Residents are urged to be prepared and take appropriate measures to ensure their safety.
• Stay updated with official communications and follow evacuation instructions if issued.

Avoiding Electrocution Risks

• Citizens are specifically warned to steer clear of electric poles and power lines.
• Flooding can pose a risk of electrocution due to contact with live electrical infrastructure.
• It is crucial to maintain a safe distance from such hazards to avoid potential harm.

About Umiam Dam

• Umiam Dam, also known as Barapani Dam, is a significant reservoir located in the Ri Bhoi district of Meghalaya, India.
• It is constructed on the Umiam River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra River.
• The dam serves multiple purposes, including water storage, hydroelectric power generation, and irrigation.

Purpose and Importance

• Umiam Dam serves as a storage reservoir, helping regulate the flow of water in the Umiam River and its downstream areas.
• The dam has a power station that harnesses the flow of water to generate electricity, contributing to the region's power supply.
• Water released from the dam is utilized for irrigation purposes, supporting agricultural activities in the surrounding areas.

Construction and Specifications

• Umiam Dam was constructed in the early 1960s as a part of the Umiam-Umtru Hydro-Electric Project.
• It is a concrete gravity dam, standing at a height of approximately 55 meters and having a length of about 1,009 meters.
• The dam has a reservoir with a storage capacity of around 320 million cubic meters.

Water Management and Flood Control

• The primary function of Umiam Dam is to manage water resources, preventing floods during periods of heavy rainfall.
• The reservoir helps regulate the flow of water downstream, minimizing the risk of flooding in the surrounding areas.

Hydroelectric Power Generation

• Umiam Dam plays a significant role in generating hydroelectric power for the region.
• The dam's power station has an installed capacity of 35 megawatts (MW) and contributes to the state's electricity supply.

Recreational Activities and Tourism

• The scenic beauty and the presence of the reservoir make Umiam Dam a popular tourist attraction.
• Boating, kayaking, and other water-based recreational activities are enjoyed by visitors, contributing to the local tourism industry.

Environmental Impact and Conservation

• The construction of the dam has resulted in the creation of a reservoir and altered the natural flow of the Umiam River.
• Environmental impact assessments are conducted to mitigate any potential adverse effects on the surrounding ecosystem and biodiversity.

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