NDSA Issues Show-Cause Notice Over Safety Lapses at Bargi Dam

NDSA Flags Major Safety Lapses at Bargi Dam, Issues Show-Cause Notice to NVDA

The National Dam Safety Authority has issued a strong show-cause notice to the Narmada Valley Development Authority over serious safety shortcomings at the Bargi Dam in Madhya Pradesh’s Jabalpur district. Citing violations of the Dam Safety Act, 2021 , the Authority warned that continued non-compliance could endanger lives and property in downstream regions.

Inspection Findings Prompt Regulatory Action

The notice followed a joint inspection and document review by teams from the National Dam Safety Authority and the Central Water Commission . The assessment concluded that the Bargi Dam—classified as a Specified Dam due to the potential consequences of failure—continues to exhibit unresolved technical and managerial issues, despite repeated advisories.

Long-Standing Leakage and Structural Risk

A key concern highlighted is persistent heavy leakage from the masonry spillway gallery. Records show that the issue was first flagged decades ago and has been repeatedly raised since 2018 without effective remediation. The NDSA cautioned that prolonged seepage can compromise the foundation and overall stability of the structure, raising the risk of a serious downstream incident.

Gaps in Monitoring and Security Protocols

The inspection also pointed to inadequate instrumentation , with no comprehensive system in place to track seepage, stress, deformation, or other structural health indicators—essential elements for managing ageing dams. Additionally, security lapses were noted, including unrestricted access to sensitive areas such as galleries, which the Authority termed unacceptable for critical infrastructure.

Classification Dispute and Legal Consequences

Despite the gravity of the findings, the dam had reportedly been placed in Safety Category III (minor deficiencies) —a classification the NDSA described as misleading. The Authority has directed the NVDA to submit a detailed response within 30 days . Failure to comply may invite action under Sections 41 and 42 of the Act, including penal provisions.

As a multipurpose project on the Narmada—supporting irrigation, water supply, and power generation —the Bargi Dam’s safety has wider regional and national implications.

Key Exam-Focused Points

• The Dam Safety Act, 2021 establishes a statutory framework for dam surveillance and risk management.

• The National Dam Safety Authority operates under the Ministry of Jal Shakti.

• Specified Dams are those whose failure could cause significant loss of life or property.

• Persistent leakage can undermine foundation stability and structural integrity.

• Instrumentation and access control are critical for modern dam safety management .