The Karnataka High Court has enforced a ban on all mining and quarrying within a 20-km radius of the Krishnarajasagar (KRS) dam, including previously permitted activities. The ban, effective until the State committee on dam safety makes a decision, aims to protect the dam from potential harm. Aging infrastructure, sediment accumulation, flooding, and seismic threats pose challenges to dams in India. The Dam Safety Act, 2021, mandates surveillance and institutional mechanisms to prevent dam-related disasters. The ban reflects a proactive step in ensuring the safety of the historic KRS dam and its surroundings.
Urgent Measures for Dam Safety:
Amid concerns about the aging infrastructure of dams in India, the Karnataka High Court has taken decisive action to prevent potential threats to the Krishnarajasagar (KRS) dam.
Comprehensive Dam Safety Act, 2021:
The Dam Safety Act, 2021, introduces measures to address the challenges faced by dams, including aging, sedimentation, flooding, and seismic threats, providing a comprehensive framework for surveillance and institutional mechanisms.
Ban’s Rationale and Impact on Mining Activities:
The mining ban within the 20-km radius of the KRS dam is motivated by the need to protect the dam from potential harm caused by mining activities. The ban encompasses all forms of mining, even those previously granted permissions or licenses.
Significance of Krishnarajasagar (KRS) Dam:
The KRS dam, constructed in the 1930s, plays a crucial role in irrigation, drinking water supply, and power generation. The recent ban underscores the importance of safeguarding this historic dam for the benefit of the region’s communities.