Union Cab approves introduction of Dam Safety Bill 2018 in Parliament

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi : The Union Cabinet chaired by PM Narendra Modi has approved the proposal for introduction of Dam Safety Bill 2018 in the Parliament. It will help all the States and Union Territories of India to adopt uniform dam safety procedures which shall ensure safety of dams and safeguard benefits from such dams. This shall also help in safeguarding human life, livestock and property.

The draft Bill has been finalised after wide consultation with leading Indian experts and international experts. The Bill provides for proper surveillance, inspection, operation and maintenance of all specified dams in the country to ensure their safe functioning.

It also provides for constitution of a National Committee on Dam Safety which shall evolve dam safety policies and recommend necessary regulations as may be required for the purpose. The Bill provides for establishment of National Dam Safety Authority as a regulatory body which shall discharge functions to implement the policy, guidelines and standards for dam safety in the country. It also provides for constitution of a State Committee on Dam Safety by State Government, according to a PIB release.

National Dam Safety Authority shall maintain liaison with the State Dam Safety Organisations and the owners of dams for standardisation of dam safety related data and practices.

There are over 5,200 large dams in India and about 450 are under construction. There are also thousands of medium and small dams. Due to lack of legal and institutional architecture for dam safety in India, dam safety is an issue of concern. Unsafe dams are a hazard and dam break may cause disasters leading to huge loss of life and property.

The Dam Safety Bill, 2018, addresses all issues concerning dam safety including regular inspection of dams, Emergency Action Plan, comprehensive dam safety review, adequate repair and maintenance funds for dam safety, Instrumentation and Safety Manuals. It lays onus of dam safety on the dam owner and provides for penal provisions for commission and omission of certain acts.