The Irrigation Bypass Tunnels (IBPTs) at the Sardar Sarovar Dam are critical components designed to ensure water delivery for irrigation and drinking purposes, especially when reservoir levels are insufficient for gravity-fed canal systems. The construction of these tunnels presented several challenges, encompassing technical, environmental, and inter-state coordination aspects.
Invert Level Adjustment: Initially, the invert level of the IBPT was set at 93.6 meters. However, to optimize water diversion during drought years, recommendations were made to lower it to 86.0 meters. This adjustment required significant design modifications and faced opposition from stakeholders concerned about potential impacts.
Construction Delays: Although the IBPTs were conceptualized to supplement water discharge, their construction faced delays. One tunnel was ready by 2001, but testing was postponed until 2006 due to various factors, including water level requirements and inter-state agreements.
Operational Agreements: The IBPTs' operation required consensus between Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. Testing was permitted only when the dam's water level exceeded 123.89 meters, highlighting the complexities of inter-state water management and the need for collaborative decision-making.
Displacement and Rehabilitation: The broader Sardar Sarovar Project, including the IBPTs, led to the displacement of numerous communities. Ensuring adequate rehabilitation and addressing environmental concerns were integral to the project's progression and required careful planning and execution.
Water Level Dependencies: The IBPTs are designed to function when reservoir levels are low. However, their operation is contingent upon specific water levels, necessitating precise monitoring and management to ensure timely water delivery without compromising structural integrity.
The construction of the IBPTs at the Sardar Sarovar Dam underscores the multifaceted challenges inherent in large-scale infrastructure projects. Addressing technical complexities, navigating inter-state dynamics, and ensuring environmental and social responsibility were pivotal in the successful realization of the IBPTs, reinforcing their role in bolstering water security for the region.
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