“Medigadda Barrage Repairs Halted Amid Subterranean Chasm Concerns”

Medigadda Barrage Repair Halted Amidst Concerns of Subterranean Chasm

The Medigadda Barrage, already under scrutiny due to structural issues, faces yet another challenge as repair efforts are temporarily halted amidst reports of unsettling noises and vibrations during the attempted lifting of its 16th gate. Officials, in a bid to address the barrage’s ongoing problems, conducted an operation to raise the 15th gate, only to encounter alarming disturbances when approaching the 16th.

Sensors installed at the site detected significant sounds and vibrations, prompting an immediate pause in repair works. Suspicions arise of a substantial cavity forming beneath the barrage, posing further risks to its stability. Initial assessments, including Ground Penetrating Radar tests, estimate the size of this subterranean chasm to range between 12,000 to 15,000 cubic meters, potentially dispersed along the barrage’s length.

The accumulation of water pressure within the barrage likely exacerbated the erosion of sand underneath, leading to the formation of this chasm. Concerns mount over the safety of the barrage, particularly during gate lifting operations, as increased pressure on compromised foundations could precipitate further collapse.

Authorities advocate for caution, emphasizing the need to address the underlying cavity before resuming repair activities. Measures include filling the void with a mixture of sand and cement once assessments are complete. Notably, the collapse of the seventh block last year prompted emergency measures, with 40,000 sandbags deployed to mitigate leakage. However, the recent discovery of a substantial cavity underscores the severity of the situation.

The urgency of repairs is underscored by recommendations from the National Dam Safety Organization, urging action before the onset of the monsoon season. Experts advise meticulous gate lifting procedures, particularly for gates positioned near cracked piers, to avert additional stress on the barrage’s infrastructure.

In light of these developments, stakeholders remain vigilant, prioritizing comprehensive assessments and targeted interventions to safeguard the Medigadda Barrage against imminent risks.