The National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) has released its final report on the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Scheme (KLIS), revealing significant structural issues in the Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla barrages. Notably, Block 7 of the Medigadda barrage has suffered irreversible damage, with cracked and displaced piers and rafts, rendering it unfit for further gate operations.

The report underscores the necessity for a comprehensive rehabilitation plan for all three barrages. It recommends that the Telangana Irrigation Department engage reputed institutions for detailed investigations and design of the rehabilitation works. Given the complexities involved, the Central Water Commission should review the rehabilitation designs to ensure structural integrity and safety.

Key issues identified include sand piping, cavity formation beneath the raft, construction flaws, and design deficiencies. These problems, observed in Block 7, could potentially affect other blocks if not addressed promptly. The report also highlights the lack of proper Operation and Maintenance (O&M) manuals, which has adversely impacted the functioning of hydro-mechanical components across the barrages.

Furthermore, the NDSA points out that construction of the barrages commenced before the project's Detailed Project Report (DPR) received approval from the Central Water Commission and other central agencies. Significant deviations from approved project parameters were made without adequate geotechnical investigations, particularly concerning the relocation of Annaram and Sundilla barrages.

To prevent recurrence of such issues, the report recommends mandatory comprehensive geotechnical investigations for large-scale projects, utilization of finite element modeling in design processes, timely data inputs for hydraulic and structural designs, and establishment of independent quality control units. It also emphasizes the importance of project-specific O&M manuals and regular maintenance protocols to prolong the lifespan of such critical infrastructure.

The NDSA's findings call for immediate action to rehabilitate the affected barrages and implement stringent measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Scheme.