The International Conference on Dam Safety 2026 opened in Bengaluru with the inauguration led by the Chief Minister of Karnataka and a session presided over by the Deputy Chief Minister. The Union Minister of Jal Shakti addressed the gathering by video message while the Union Minister of State and senior state and international representatives were in attendance. The event convened officials from the World Bank, the International Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD), the International Centre for Water Hazard and Risk Management (ICHARM), the Central Water Commission (CWC), academic institutions and state water departments.

The plenary session assembled senior policymakers, regulators and domain experts to examine emerging challenges, priorities and the way forward for strengthening dam safety practices across the country. The session was chaired by the President of ICOLD and co-chaired by the Regional Practice Director for South Asia at the World Bank, with presentations from diplomatic, national and technical specialists. Deliberations emphasised institutional capacity building, regulatory enhancement and the role of systematic rehabilitation in risk reduction.

Speakers drew extensively on the experience of the Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) as a flagship initiative that has improved structural and operational safety, enhanced inspection and monitoring protocols, and mainstreamed risk-informed decision-making. Delegates noted that the project has generated lessons applicable to other jurisdictions seeking to modernise dam safety through targeted investment and skill development. Discussions highlighted innovations in structural assessment, rehabilitation materials and regulatory frameworks such as the Dam Safety Act, 2021.

Concluding remarks underlined the need for coordinated operation of upstream and downstream reservoirs, robust operation and maintenance regimes, and sustainable financing to reduce lifecycle risks. Participants observed that measures such as floating solar, tourism and fisheries can diversify revenue streams to support ongoing maintenance and resilience measures. Technical and industrial sessions were scheduled to follow, and delegates were offered a cultural evening at Vidhan Soudha to conclude the first day.