The BMC is planning to replace the outflow gates of the Tansa reservoir that supplies water to the city. The reason: These gates, which release or stop the water flow from the dam depending on the water levels, are almost 60 years old and may not work properly in times of emergency.
These 38 gates, which are spread over an area of 330 metres, perform a vital task- that of discharging the water on to the spillway when the water level in the dam rises. The gates close to stop the water flow and open to discharge the water according to the water level in the dam reservoir. Located in Thane district, the Tansa dam was built in 1892 and supplies around 500 MLD of water to the city.
Said Deepakkumar Khajbaje, Hydraulic Engineer, BMC: "These gates are in place since 1948 and the cement counterweights which ensure that they open and close according to the water level, are damaged. This may lead to a situation where the gates not opening or closing in times of an urgency like may cause problems."
Added PM Guhe, Executive Engineer, BMC: "The gates may not close properly in times of need, thus leading to water meant for the city going waste. Hence, replacement of these gates is necessary." Consequently, the gates not opening in times of high water levels can also weaken the dam and cause the water to flood the adjoining areas.
{{/usCountry}}Added PM Guhe, Executive Engineer, BMC: "The gates may not close properly in times of need, thus leading to water meant for the city going waste. Hence, replacement of these gates is necessary." Consequently, the gates not opening in times of high water levels can also weaken the dam and cause the water to flood the adjoining areas.
{{/usCountry}}The BMC is planning to replace these gates and a consultant will be appointed soon, after which a study will be undertaken and a proposal for the replacement will be made. However, the fact that the gates are old with little chance for getting the exact models now has meant that the civic body will have to ensure that they are made to order.
Email: dhaval.kulkarni@hindustantimes.com