The Molibar Dam Collapse: A Deadly Consequence of Colonial-Era Engineering in India
Morvi Dam Collapse: Colonial Engineering Failure
The failure of the Machchhu dam in Morvi, Gujarat, India, in August 1979, serves as a stark example of infrastructure vulnerabilities and their devastating consequences. This catastrophic event, potentially resulting from oversights in the post-colonial era, caused widespread destruction and significant loss of life.
Inadequate Spillway Capacity: The Root Cause
Initial investigations indicated that the failure of the Machchhu II dam, completed in 1972, was due to inadequate spillway capacity. The exceptionally heavy monsoon rains of 1979 overwhelmed the dam’s capacity, resulting in its breach.
A Devastating Event
Conclusion
The Morvi dam collapse stands as a tragic reminder of the importance of robust engineering and meticulous infrastructure management. It highlights the lasting impact of colonial-era infrastructure and the ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety and resilience of dams in India.
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