Rampur Bhakra Dam Crisis: Cracks Raise Irrigation Concerns for 20,000 Farmers as Repair Efforts Continue
A 115-year-old dam on the Bhakra River in Bilaspur, Rampur, is facing a serious repair challenge after cracks and water leakage were reported in its structure. The situation has raised concerns among farmers who depend on the dam for irrigation, with around 20,000 farmers across 88–90 villages relying on its water supply.
According to reports, approximately 15,000 hectares of agricultural land in the area receive irrigation water from the dam. Farmers are now worried that prolonged repair work or disruption in water supply could affect standing crops as well as the upcoming agricultural season.
What Happened at Bhakra Dam?
The problem began with water leakage from two locations in the dam area. In one location, the leakage damaged part of the floor, while another section reportedly developed problems due to water seeping underneath the old structure.
A deep cavity reportedly formed in the affected area, prompting the irrigation department to begin repair and water-diversion efforts. The department initially used concrete and geotubes in an attempt to control the water flow, but the strong current made the work difficult.
The dam is around 115 years old, adding to concerns about the condition of its ageing structure.
Temporary Earthen Dam Breaks Under Water Pressure
To divert the water away from the damaged portion, officials constructed a temporary earthen barrier inside the reservoir.
The department had created a wall around the leaking source to redirect the flow towards the left Bhakra canal and the Bhakra River. Reports said the structure was around 40 metres long and several metres high.
However, on Monday morning, the strong water current reportedly cut through the reservoir floor beneath the temporary structure and caused the earthen wall to collapse. Workers then began efforts to repair the damaged section while controlling the water flow.
Workers Continue Repair Work Despite Strong Current
Following the failure of the temporary barrier, irrigation department teams remained at the site.
Officials said the immediate objective is to control the water around the leaking source and create a workable area from which the main leakage can be repaired. Excavators, JCBs and Poklen machines are being used in the muddy reservoir area.
Officials have also raised concerns about crowds gathering near the site, saying that the presence of onlookers is making repair work more difficult. Police protection has been sought to restrict public movement around the dam.
Why Farmers Are Worried
The dam’s condition has created uncertainty for farmers across the Bilaspur area.
Around 15,000 hectares of farmland reportedly depend on the dam’s irrigation system, benefiting approximately 20,000 farmers in 88–90 villages. If water supply is reduced or interrupted during the repair process, farmers could face difficulty irrigating standing crops.
Farmers have pointed out that crops already require significant spending on seeds, fertilisers, cultivation, labour and irrigation. A shortage of water at a critical stage could affect crop yields and increase cultivation costs if farmers have to arrange alternative irrigation.
Some farmers have specifically expressed concern over the impact on paddy crops if irrigation water becomes unavailable at the required time.
Farmers Seek Clarity on Irrigation Arrangements
Farmers have called for a technical assessment of the damaged dam structure and clearer information about how irrigation will be maintained during the repair work.
Their concern is not only about repairing the ageing structure but also about ensuring that agricultural fields continue receiving adequate water.
The situation therefore presents two immediate challenges for authorities: protecting the dam and maintaining irrigation for the agricultural land that depends on it.
Bridge Near Bhakra Dam Also Reportedly Develops Cracks
The concerns around the site have also extended to a newer bridge located at the Bhakra Dam.
A report published by Amar Ujala said cracks have appeared in pillars at both ends of the bridge, which was built around 16 years ago. The bridge is part of an important route connecting the Rampur and Rudrapur areas and is used by regular traffic, school buses and vehicles travelling towards the hills.
The report said local residents have raised concerns about the condition of the pillars and called for inspection and repairs. An SDM said the Public Works Department had been informed and would investigate the matter.
What Happens Next?
The immediate focus remains on controlling the water flow and stabilising the damaged portion of the Bhakra Dam.
Earlier attempts involving geotubes and concrete were unsuccessful under the pressure of the water flow, after which officials moved toward constructing earthen barriers and diverting the river’s flow.
For farmers, however, the key question is how long the repair process will take and whether irrigation supplies can continue without major disruption.
With thousands of farmers and a large agricultural area dependent on the dam, the coming days will be important for both the structure’s repair and the region’s irrigation system.