Manual For Dams-V1 - Final

Government of Telangana
Irrigation &CAD Department
Guidelines for Operation

and Maintenance of Dams
Engineer-In-Chief (O & M)
Guidelines for Operation & Maintenance of Dams
DISCLAIMER
Guidelines for preparing operation and maintenance Manual for dams in no

way restricts the dam owner in digressing from it. The State Dam Safety
Organization or the Engineer-in-chief (O&M) office cannot be held
responsible for the efficacy of the manuals developed by various dam owners
based on these guidelines. Dam owners and operators should exe rcise
appropriate discretion when preparing an operation and maintenance
manual for their dams.
For any information, please contact

Engineer-in-Chief(O&M)
I&CAD department
4th Floor, Jalasoudha Building
Errummanzil
Hyderabad-500082
Email: enconmts.irr@gmail.com
MESSAGE
FOREWARD
PREFACE
CONTENTS
CHAPT ER -I: GENERAL INFORMATION .....................................................................................................................
1.1 Purpose, Location and Description Of DAM ................................................................................................................. 1
1.2 Assignment of Responsibility ...................................................................................................................................... 2
1.3 Collection & Reporting OF DAM and Reservoir Data ..................................................................................................... 3
1.4 Water Resources Monitoring system........................................................................................................................... 5
1.5 Public Utilities and Safety ........................................................................................................................................... 6
1.6 Restricted Areas ......................................................................................................................................................... 7
1.7 Staff position, Communication & Warning System ....................................................................................................... 7
1.8 Distribution of Operation & Maintenance Manuals ...................................................................................................... 9
1.9 Supporting Documents & Reference Material.............................................................................................................. 9
1.10 Typical Schedule of Duties....................................................................................................................................... 10
CHAPT ER -2: PROJECT OPERATION ........................................................................................................................
2.1 Operation Plan......................................................................................................................................................... 17
2.2 Normal Operations................................................................................................................................................... 17
2.4 Em er g enc y Op erati on s ......................................................................................................................................... 24
2.5 Drawdown Facility .................................................................................................................................................. 28
2.6 Initial Filling of Reservoir.......................................................................................................................................... 29
2.7 Rec ord K eepi ng ..................................................................................................................................................... 31
Chapter 3.PROJECT INSPECTION ..............................................................................................................................
3.1 Objective of dam inspection...................................................................................................................................... 35
3.2 Types of dam safety inspections:............................................................................................................................... 35
Chapter 4. PROJECT MAINTENANCE .....................................................................................................................
4.1 Maintenance Plan .................................................................................................................................................... 63
4.2 Maintenance Priorities ............................................................................................................................................. 63
4.3 Procedures for undertaking Routine Maintenance works ........................................................................................... 65
4.4 Hydro - Mechanical & Electrical Equipments: ............................................................................................................ 71
4.5 Access Roads............................................................................................................................................................ 71
4.6 General Cleaning...................................................................................................................................................... 71
4.7 Materials requirements for maintenance during monsoon period .............................................................................. 71
4.8 Preparation of O&M budget ..................................................................................................................................... 72
4.9 Apportionment of O&M cost in respect of inter-state projects ................................................................................... 72
4.10 O&M cost for dams where owner and operator are different ................................................................................... 73
4.11 Maintenance Records............................................................................................................................................. 73
Chapter 5. INSTRUMENTATION AND MONITORING .............................................................................................
5.1 Details to be included in an O&M Manual ................................................................................................................. 74
5.2 Instrument Types and Usage .................................................................................................................................... 75
5.3 Frequency of Monitoring .......................................................................................................................................... 75
5.4 Data Processing and Evaluation................................................................................................................................ 76
5.5 Visual Observations:................................................................................................................................................. 78
Chapter 6. UPDATING THE MANUAL ......................................................................................................................
Appendix A: Strengthening of Alarm and Warning System .............................................................................................. 80
Appendix – B: Checklist of Various Instruments installed in the Dam................................................................................ 84
Appendix-C: Health Status Report................................................................................................................................... 88
Appendix-D: Action Taken Report ................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Appendix E: Evacuating Storage Reservoirs..................................................................................................................... 90
APPENDIX F - GLOSSARY................................................................................................................................................. 95
ABBREVIATIONS
Acronyms used in this publication are as follows:
BIS Bureau of Indian Standards
CDSO Central Dam Safety Organisation
CWC Central Water Commission
SDSO State Dam Safety Organisation
O &M Operation and Maintenance
DSRP Dam Safety Review Panel
DTM Digital Terrain Model
EAP Emergency Action Plan
GPS Global Positioning System (uses GPRS for data transmis-

sion like browsing the web)
FRL Full Reservoir Level
MWL Maximum Water Level
MDDL Minimum Draw Down Level
RT-DAS Real Time Data Acquisition system
SCADA Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition
DDMS Dam Deformation Monitoring System
EDA Energy Dissipation Arrangement
HM works Hydro-Mechanical works
DG set Diesel Generator set
ADAS Automated Data Acquisition System
RMU Remote Monitoring Unit
CHAPTER -1: GENERAL INFORMATION
INTRODUCTION
An Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Manual of a dam is a detailed written description of

procedures for ensuring that the dam functions safely and is kept in a good condition by
periodic repairs/maintenance. Timely maintenance is important for the continued safe
functioning of the dam and productive use of the dam and reservoir. The term ―O&M as
employed in these guidelines includes operation, maintenance & general repairs of dam
components including replacement, as necessary.
The Manual needs to be prepared primarily for the dam operations staff and their
supervisors, who are assigned the responsibility of the physical operations and maintenance
of the dam. It should contain, as a minimum, all information and instructions necessary for
them to perform their allotted tasks. In addition to instructions for dam operations staff, the
Manuals should also include all necessary instructions for other staff directly or indirectly
involved in operating and maintaining the dam.
Emergency Action Plan (EAP) will help in minimizing losses to life and property. The manual
should contain the emergency situations and guidelines for developing the Emergency
Action Plan.
In general, it is a global practice that the O&M Manual is available prior to the initial filling of
the reservoir.
1.1 Purpose, Location and Description Of DAM
The following information needs to be included in the Manual:
1.1.1. Name of the dam.

1.1.2. Name of the river on which the dam is built, sub-basin & river basin.
1.1.3. Location of the dam – Latitude/ Longitude.
1.1.4. District in which it is located
1.1.5. Nearest city/town.
1.1.6. Nearest railway station & airport.
1.1.7. Location/Index Plan.
1.1.8. Project Benefits.
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1.1.9. Salient features of dam.

1.1.9.1. Basic drawings of the dam & spillway such as plan, elevations, cross-sections,
gallery layout etc.
1.1.10. Brief history of the dam including dam incidents/additions/modifications etc.
1.1.11. Any special problem encountered during design and construction
1.2 Assignment of Responsibility

This chapter should clearly identify all areas of responsibilities connected with the operation
& maintenance of the dam. The officers having responsibility for the following functions
needs to be identified by their designation: -
Table 1: Assignment of Responsibility
Sl.
No. Function Officers having responsibility
Project Administration-Officer-in- Executive Engineer of concerned Dam

1.
Charge
2. Operations of equipment at the dam Deputy Executive Engineer(for all cadres)

Estimating Inflows in the reservoir
and flood forecasting Executive Engineer
3
4. Authorizing spillway releases Chief Engineer

5. Authorizing releases for irrigation Chief Engineer
6. Recording reservoir data Assistant Executive Engineer
Executive Engineer,
7 Routine inspection Deputy Executive Engineer & Assistant
Executive Engineer/Assistant Engineer
Executive Engineer
8 Maintenance
& Deputy Executive Engineer
Executive Engineer, Deputy Executive Engineer
Dam safety surveillance including
9 & Assistant Executive Engineer/Assistant
instrumentation
Engineer
Administrative and operational relationships with user organizations should be highlighted.

Formal agreements/awards with other State Governments /Agencies/ Organizations as well
as informal arrangements should be referenced. Arrangements with other Agencies/
2
Organizations/State Governments should be readily available.
The responsibilities of operating personnel should be specifically identified in the Manual.

This should include regularly scheduled duties which they are required to perform as
discussed in Section 1.9 in this chapter.
1.3 Collection & Reporting of Dam and Reservoir Data

Instructions & standard forms for collection and reporting of dam & reservoir data needs to
be included in the Manual.
Routine data for the following is to be collected in separate forms as per frequency
prescribed: -
1.3.1. Reservoir water surface elevation.
1.3.2. Reservoir inflow.
1.3.3. Spillway outflow.
1.3.4. River releases.
1.3.5. Irrigation, water supply and hydropower releases.
1.3.6. Weather related data.
1.3.7. Surveillance and monitoring
1.3.8. Water quality
1.3.9. Process of Recording and Reporting Reservoir inflows, spillway, River, Irrigation,
and hydropower releases at the dam site
Irrigation & CAD department of Telangana has developed web enabled software application
to store and report the inflow and outflows information of all major reservoirs. The web
application i.e., Reservoir Storage Monitoring System is hosted securely at Central Servers of
Telangana state. The Assistant Executive Engineer should record all the inflow and all outflow
details in prescribed proforma at dam site at specified intervals and communicate the
information to the higher authorities and to Flood control room through SMS, email and
departmental mobile application. Currently all the project inflow data and releases made at
dam site is being sent to Flood Control room and it is also available on demand through a
Mobile application to concerned authorities. Flood Control room officials shall send the data
to Central Servers through a software application. The data stored in Central servers are
available through Reservoir Storage Monitoring system (web application) to all departmental
officials and citizens through the Irrigation and CAD departmental web site.
3
During the monsoon period, the Departmental Engineers shall monitor the Flood situation round the
clock. Engineers shall also be available round the clock in Flood control room to receive the flood
alert warnings and the engineers posted at dam site shall send the hourly data to Flood control room
during heavy floods.
Table 2: Example Proforma for recording flow and water release monthly data
Outflow in Cusecs
Date Water Inflow Irrigation Irrigation Drinkin Indust Evapor Spillw Power Total
Level in Releases Releases g water rial ation ay House outflow
in Feet Cusecs Right Left Main Release Relea losses Releas releases in Cusecs
Main Canal s ses es
Canal
Further records of the following operations in a dam needs to be maintained in a

chronological manner for reference. These records would be helpful in identifying
development of any unusual conditions in the dam.
• Attendance statement during normal operations – both during monsoon and non-
monsoon period.
• Operations of the spillway gates and outlet works.
• Operating hours of mechanical equipment.
• Testing/Operation of spillway gates, stop-logs, and associated controls.
• Testing/operation of Outlet gates, valves, and associated controls
• Maintenance activities carried out.
• Reservoir and dam inspections.
• Unusual conditions or occurrences, including acts of vandalism.
• Attendance statement at the dam during emergency operations.
• Changes to normal operating procedures.
• Communication network checks.
• Safety and special instructions.
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• Names and addresses of official visitors (e.g., staff carrying out inspection)
• Any other item pertaining to the operation and maintenance of the dam.
1.4 Water Resources Monitoring system

Dam authorities shall ensure that hydro-metrological data systems for including streamflow
and water storage measurements are in place at dam site. Proper mechanism that captures
and records both water releases downstream and water uses should be established at dam
site. The systems could be for manual or automated measurements. Hydromet networks
will encompass meteorological, hydrological and water quality measurements. The emphasis
should be on real-time data collection and telemetric transmission for use in water resources
planning, reservoir operations and flood management. To upgrade existing system, technical
audit is required. Surveys of erosion and sedimentation should be undertaken for every five
years for accuracy of hydromet data.
1.4.1. ESTABLISHMENT OF SCADA SYSTEMS FOR WATER INFRASTRUCTURE AND ALERTS
In addition to real time data acquisition systems, reservoir and canal operation systems may
be equipped with the remote-control systems (SCADA) that will allow the control of gates
and operation from a control room or other remote areas and, hence, will allow system
responses on a real time basis during floods or any other emergency. This will require
measurement of water levels in reservoirs and off-takes (spillways and canals).
1.4.2. ESTABLISHMENT OF HYDRO-INFORMATICS CENTER
As part of the National Hydrology Project, government is establishing the facilities for
automated data collection, collation, and processing at state level. This includes (i)
construction or upgrading of state Hydro-informatics (data) centers, to serve as hubs for both
real-time and long-term data management and operational control systems; (ii) information
technology equipment and software to receive and process data; (iii) services to digitize
historical data and records; and (iv) data storage servers including cloud servers.
Every major dam shall have all hydrological monitoring systems, which capture and send the
data to central servers automatically.
5
1.4.3. INFLOW FORECASTING SYSTEM
Dam authorities shall maintain the record of Gross storage, Live storage and Maximum
Probable flood discharge and maximum design discharge of concerned dam. The inflows to
all major dam sites in Krishna and Godavari rivers in Telangana predominantly depend on
flows generated in upstream states of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh and
Karnataka. Respective Dam authorities shall monitor the floods recorded in upstream states
and lag time to reach the flood to concerned project site. Dam authorities should be in touch
with Central Water Commission authorities and upstream dam maintenance officials and
estimate the forthcoming flood well in advance. For all dams where flash floods are common
due to local rainfall it is recommended to establish Automatic Weather station sensors in the
Catchment area to estimate inflows to the dam site.
The following measures are essential for effective management of floods in Krishna and
Godavari River basins during the monsoons. Liaising with upstream states is most critical for
flood forecasting
• Nomination of liaising officers for respective reservoirs.
• Sharing of Sub-basin wise directory of concerned officers responsible for flood

management.
• Exchanging of rainfall data, water release data from upstream dams, upstream storage
levels etc.,
• Reservoir operation schedules of upstream reservoirs
1.5 Public Utilities and Safety

As public safety is of prime concern, safety instructions & protection measures at the dam
should be included in a supporting document and referenced in the Manual. Signboards need
to be provided at appropriate locations of the dam for convenience of the public.
This should include the following: -
• Location of public conveniences near the dam.
• Distance to the nearest medical assistance and police station from the dam.
6
• Safety equipment available at the dam would be listed here; (first-aid kits, fire
extinguisher, self-contained breathing apparatus, air-quality monitors, etc.)
• Any other pertinent information concerning public health and safety.
1.6 Restricted Areas

Area of the dam and reservoir with restricted entry for the public should be indicated in a
Supporting document and referenced in the Manual. Purpose of restriction should be
explained.
Restricted areas which are potentially hazardous could include the following:
1.6.1. Confined spaces, especially those with no ventilation.
1.6.2. Spillway approach areas, chutes and stilling basins.
1.6.3. Control buildings and valve areas.
1.6.4. Intake or outlet channels adjacent to hydraulic structures subject to surging or rapid
changes in water level during releases.
1.6.5. Active land slide areas.
Suitable warning and restriction signs located at various places around the dam should be
referenced in the Manual.
Reference should be made to the Communications Directory for local police assistance,
medical and fire services.
1.7 Staff position, Communication & Warning System

The number & description of operating unit personnel posted/placed at different locations
of the dam should be noted in supporting documents & referenced in the Manual. Staff
position will vary according to requirement during monsoon/non-monsoon.
1.7.1. COMMUNICATION SYSTEM
The Assistant Engineer/Assistant Executive Engineer of the project has to be entrusted the
responsibility of effective transmission of hydro- meteorological and stream flow data
through different means, which include Short Mail Service (SMS), telephone and wireless to
7
the Flood Cell of the State.
The Superintending Engineer should ensureappropriate mechanism to keep local

administration in-formed about extreme inflows, sudden release of water and other
exigency conditions.
Directory of contact numbers of key persons of Civil Administration, Police, Ambulance, Fire
Station etc. should be made available available in divisional office. Regular revision /
updating of the Directory is being carried out.
One display board should be provided containing the contact numbers of the Chief Engineer,
Superintending Engineer, Executive Engineer, Assistant Executive Engineer, and other
personnel related to operation of the dam. The available means of communication may
include landline, mobile phones.
The proper accessibility with jeep able roads shall be ensured to all the vulnerable points for
constant monitoring during emergent situations.
The means of communications both in normal and emergency situations should be

identified. All available communication means including landline, mobile phones, wireless
sets, &phones facility should be noted.
If no facilities are available at the dam site, the location and owner of the nearest phone or
radio should be noted. The actual phone numbers and other communication numbers
should be listed in the Communication Directory for the dam.
1.7.2. WARNING SYSTEM:
In addition to communication facilities, a brief description of the warning systems including

alarms at the dam should be maintained. This will include giving information to downstream
areas regarding release of flood outflows from the spillway. Basic facilities like
communication facilities, sirens, hooters etc. are to be compulsorily provided at all dams.
A notification for strengthening the alarm and warning system for safety of people from
sudden release of water from dams issued by the National Disaster Management Authority
in October 2015 may be seen at Appendix -A.
8
At the time of release of water from dam, the district administration and press are to be
intimated. Public of downstream areas are informed through mike announcement before
release of water in monsoon periods.
Twelve hours prior to the opening of gates, the sirens should be blown at every 1 hr. interval.
1.8 Distribution of Operation & Maintenance Manuals

The list of unit’s offices to whom the O&M Manual is required to be distributed needs to be
mentioned in the O&M Manual. It must be ensured that revisions of the Manual are also
supplied to the same units as per the list.
Page numbering of the Manual should be in form of 1-1, 1-2…for Chapter 1 and 2-1, 2- 2…for
Chapter 2 etc. for the different chapters to allow for future revision without affecting overall
page numbering. It is recommended that while revising a Manual each revised sheet should
clearly show the revision number and date.
O&M manual for individual dams of Telangana must be prepared for every dam as each dam
has its uniqueness and issues to be dealt separately. O & M manual prepared is required to
be distributed as mentioned below for reference.
1. Chief Engineer.
2. Superintending Engineer.
3. Executive Engineer. (Concerned Dam)
4. Deputy Executive Engineer.
5. Assistant Executive Engineer/Assistant Engineer
1.9 Supporting Documents & Reference Material

The O&M Manual is the key instruction document. Supporting documents other than the
Manual provide necessary instructions for all phases of the operation & maintenance of the
dam, reservoir & appurtenant works. They need to be referenced in the Manual.
The number of supporting documents will vary from project to project & may include the
following: -
Operating criteria for the reservoir, spillway & outlets.
1.9.1. Emergency action plan.

1.9.2. Flood forecasting and operating criteria.
1.9.3. Basin or river operating plan.
9
1.9.4. Power station or pumping plant operating instructions.

1.9.5. Irrigation operating instructions.
1.9.6. Administrative procedures.
1.9.7. Dam site security plan
1.9.8. Reservoir or river pollution contingency plans.
1.9.9. Major maintenance procedures
1.9.10. Maintenance schedules
1.9.11. Manufacturer ‘s instructions & drawings.
1.9.12. Reservoir management plan (land, recreation, fish, and wildlife).
1.9.13. Regional communications director for dams
1.9.14. Instrumentation reports and/or results
1.10 Typical Schedule of Duties

The checklist below should be used as a guide in preparing duty schedules for operating
personnel. Depending on the requirements at dam site, size and importance of the dam, the
frequency of the duties can be altered. All activities should be recorded in dam logbook /site
registers.
1.10.1. DAILY
• Visual inspection of dam
➢ Crest of dam (Dam top)
➢ Upstream and downstream faces
➢ Visible portions of foundation and abutments contacts
➢ Galleries
• Record water surface elevation. (during monsoon on hourly basis)
• Record reservoir inflow and spillway discharge. (during monsoon on hourly basis)
• Record releases from outlets /sluices.
• Record seepage from drainage systems- Toe drains, Gallery drains etc. on daily basis
(during initial filling of the reservoir)
• Record meteorological data.
• Check security and safety devices.
• Complete logbook / site registers which should include the above information
10
1.10.2. WEEKLY
Electrical System
• Standby generator (DG Sets)
➢ Run for 15-30 min to achieve recommended operating temperature
➢ Check status of batteries and keep them charged.
➢ Check Fuel Supply
• Drainage systems - Toe drains, Gallery drains etc. (during 1st year after initial reservoir
filling)
1.10.3. MONTHLY
Check condition of Dam and Reservoir
• Critical landslides area (During Mon- soon)
• Reservoir periphery (During Mon- soon)
• Drainage systems - Toe Drains, Gallery drains etc. (on regular basis from second year
onwards after initial reservoir filling)
• Measuring devices/Instruments
• Security and safety devices – rectification, if needed.

• Communication Devices
• Status of Vegetation growth

• Check Sign/Warning display boards near vulnerable locations
Mechanical/Electrical System
• Replace fuse light bulbs
• Inspect to maintain ventilation system
• Cleaning of control panel board
1.10.4. THREE MONTHLY
OUTLET WORKS
• Availability of updated operating instruction
• Check gate air vents
• Clean gate control switchboxes
11
• Check operation of gates and valves

• Grease gate hanger / dogging
Check
• Check condition of trash rack of intake structure
• Check condition of Outlet works & its Energy Dissipation Arrangement
• Check operation of Valve house
Spillway
• Check condition of log and safety boom

• Check for debris in inlet channel
• Check operation of gates
• Check for damages in spillway glacis, energy dissipation arrangement, d/s area etc.
• Check and clear spillway bridge drains
• Clean inside of motor control cabinet
Other works
• Check for adherence to instrumentation schedule
• Record pertinent information in Operation Log
• Check condition of V-notch/other seepage measuring devices
1.10.5. SIX MONTHLY
Spillway & outlet works

• Check paint on gates and outlet works
• Check lubrication of wire ropes and application of cardium compound.

• Check mechanical hoist bearings and flexible coupling bearings
• Check gear systems
• Exercise gate and valves
• Check oil reservoir level in hydraulic system

• Check pressure release valve
• Lubricate gate rollers
• Check rubber seals and seal clamp bar
12
Electrical System and Equipment

• Change oil in stand by generator
• Check exposed electrical wiring of:

➢ Operating equipment ‘s of gates/valves/hoists of Outlet works.
➢ Operating equipment ‘s of gates and hoists of Spillway
➢ Operating equipment ‘s of any other gates and hoists in dam
➢ Spillway bridge
➢ Dam Galleries
➢ Check Gate limit switches and adjust
1.10.6. ANNUALLY
Spillway & outlet works

• Paint
➢ Metalwork, Gate, Hoists, and all exposed metal parts
➢ Valves / Control valves
• Hydraulic power pack system
• Exercise Gates and Valves

• Examine stilling basin / energy dissipation arrangement and d/s channel & carry out
rectification works, as necessary.
• Check metal welds for damages/cracks in Gates, Hoist platform, Radial Gate Tie flats,
Trunnion Girders/supports etc.
Electrical
• Check electrical conduits, pull-boxes, and switches for:
➢ Outlet works valve house
➢ Gates & hoists
➢ Spillway bridge
➢ Galleries
1.10.7. FIVE YEARLY
• Inspect intake structures, trash racks and stilling basin / energy dissipation
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arrangement, which normally are underwater. This may need to be done by carrying out
dewatering or by divers/remote operated vehicle, as necessary.
• Review of dam operation procedures and EAP.
14
CHAPTER -2: PROJECT OPERATION
1. The operation of a dam will involve regulation of its reservoir as per project specific
requirements, keeping records and ensuring public safety. Proper operation procedures are
crucial for maintaining a safe structure. This chapter provides details on how various
elements of a project are to be operated both during normal and emergency situations.
2. Basic Data:
The basic data that should be maintained for each dam is as below:
I. GENERAL:
1. Name of the Dam:
2. Purpose of Project: Irrigation /Power/Water Supply /Multipurpose/
3. Village
4. Mandal / District:
5. Global Coordinates: Latitude: Longitude:
6. Year of completion:
7. First filling (Year/ Level):
8. Benefits to accrue/ accrued a) Irrigation :
b) Water Supply :
c) Power :
d) Other benefits :
II. IMPORTANT CONTROLLING LEVELS (in meters):
1. Top of dam of level (T.D.L) :
2. Maximum Water level (M.W.L) :
3. Full Reservoir level (F.R.L) :
4. Sill level of Irrigation sluices :
5. Sill level of scouring sluices :
6. Spillway crest level :
7. Minimum draw down level :
8. Lowest river bed level :
9. Deepest foundation level :
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III. IMPORTANT SALIENT FEATURES:

1. Gross storage capacity at F.R.L (M Cum) :
2. Gross storage capacity at M.W.L (M Cum) :
3. Live storage capacity at F.R.L (M Cum) :
4. Dead storage capacity in (M Cum) :
5. Area of Fore-Shore at F.R.L (Ha) :
6. Total Catchment Area (Sq.Km) :
7. Inflow design flood
(PMF/SPF/Any other) (Cumecs) :
8. Spillway design discharge (Cumecs) :
9. Type, Number and Size of Gates (m) :
10. Height of the Earth dam (m) :
a) Above Deepest Foundation
(NOF/Spillway) :
b) Above Lowest river bed :
11. Height of Spillway/NOF from
Deepest foundation (m) :
12. Total length of dam at crest (m) :
a) Length of earth dam :
b) Length of spillway :
c) Length of NOF :
13. Top width of dam :
14. Total Ayacut (Ha) : Wet: Dry: Total:
In addition to the above salient features every Dam should also have the following data:
• Area – Capacity curves.
• Data of the historic floods.
• Latest design flood and flood routing study.
• Sequence of operation of spillway gates during monsoon.
• Discharge through spillway for different reservoir levels with different gate openings.
• Where more than one spillway exists, the sequence of operation of spillways need to be
included
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2.1 Operation Plan

Operation plan consists of step-by-step instructions for operating the dam and reservoir.
Operating procedures are developed based on:
• Reservoir operation studies, relevant design documents, hydraulic model studies etc.
• Equipment Operating and Maintenance Instructions (Manufacturers' Instructions) Operating

procedures are to be developed for both normal operations and emergency operations.
2.2 Normal Operations

The operating procedures developed for normal or day-to-day operation of a dam shall
include the following:
• Instructions for operating control mechanisms.
• Instructions for operating the reservoir in accordance with reservoir operation rule curve.
• General instructions for the safe operation of the dam and appurtenances.
The following aspects also need to be included:

• Releases to be made for various purposes round the year including releases to be made as
per Inter-State Agreements/MOU‘s with various States/Agencies/Projects, riparian releases
etc.
• Rule curves
• Inflow forecasting
• Flood release procedure

• Limitation on reservoir drawdown rate to prevent failure of u/s slope of the
embankment/landslides along reservoir periphery
Site security is a matter of concern at all major dams. This includes terrorism implications
and preventing structural damage by vandals and unauthorized operation of outlet or
spillway gates. In most cases restricting public access is essential, and in some instances
electronic security devices should be considered.
2.3.1. Instructions for Operating Control Mechanisms
The Procedures should provide instructions for operating all necessary equipment associated
with a dam including the spillway gates and outlet gates /valves. The gate manufacturer ‘s
17
O&M Manual for Gates & Hoists will however govern the overall Gate operations whenever
there as any contradiction with the instructions given in the Manual. The frequency and
nature (e.g., flow test, static test, dry test) of operational check testing of the equipment ‘s
should be specified. Correct sequence should be emphasize d and sketches, drawings, and
photographs to aid in identifying specific handles, buttons, levers, etc., should be included.
Provisions and uses of backup equipment should be outlined.
The correct method and sequence of opening and closing guard gates, gate usage during low
and high flow, and openings at which excessive vibration are experienced, and operating
problems peculiar to a specific gate should also be listed. For gates/valves, a schematic
diagram should be provided showing each component (including backup equipment) and its
place in the operating sequence.
An auxiliary power system such as a petrol or diesel-operated generator or other appropriate
energy source is essential if the outlets, spillway gates and other dam facilities are electrically
operated. This system should be located at levels higher than the extreme flood levels.
Access and lighting during extreme events are essential.
All the spillway and outlet gates should be tested on a regular schedule along with testing of
alarms and associated indicators. The test should include use of both the primary and
auxiliary power systems.
2.3.2. Operation of the Reservoir

Instructions need to be included for the general operation of the reservoir, including
monitoring and regulation of inflow and outflow. Inflows shall consist of flows/ releases from
upstream dam, tail race releases into the reservoir, contribution from the intervening
catchment etc. as applicable. The surplus flows will be passed as outflow through the
spillways in the dam.
Releases from the reservoir will need to be made for irrigation, power generation, or other
purposes as per project requirements. Release rate instructions and schedules for the same
need to be referenced. Any other required downstream f lows should be given. The actual
release rates and dates should be recorded and placed in the project files.
Instructions for operating spillways will be based on:
• Gate operation sequence including tables giving discharges for different gate openings and
reservoir levels obtained through model studies or otherwise.
18
• Where more than one spillway exists, the sequence of operation of spillways needs to be
included.
• The general instructions should give the maximum pool levels proposed at different times of
the year, and the largest and smallest carryover storage volumes. Both reservoir filling and
release procedures (Rule Curves) should be available.
Guidelines for drawdown, flushing & sluicing in case of Hydro-power projects need to be
referenced.
2.3.3. RESERVOIR OPERATION GUIDELINES
The various important reservoir levels and corresponding capacities are given below for
reference for a sample reservoir:
Live Capacity in M.
Particulars RL. in meters
Cum
Minimum draw down level 314.858 M 145. 63
Full Reservoir level 318.516 M 192.50
Maximum water level 318.516 M 421.69
Canal sill level 312.420 M
Crest Level 310.00
MONSOON YIELDS
Inflow data for monsoon months for a dam site calculated on monthly basis from actual
observed data at a dam and the same expressed as percentage of live reservoir capacity is
given below for reference for a sample reservoir :
75% Dependable 75% Monthly yield as

Month percentage (%) of live
yield TMC
reservoir capacity
June 1.5 25%
July 3.9 67%
August 84.2 >100%
September 70.7 >100%
October 39.9 >100%
Nov. to June -
19
2.3.4 PROPOSED RESERVOIR LEVELS DURING MONSOON MONTHS
The reservoir levels to be maintained should be such that the reservoir receives the average
monsoon yields during the month so that it is at FRL by 15th September every year. The yield
during 2nd fortnight of September and the month of October is very meagre and cannot be
relied upon for filling of reservoir.
The proposed reservoir level, live capacity and percentage filling are given below for
reference for a sample reservoir :
Reservoir Capacity % filling of

level (m) (M. Cum.) Gross
Storage
By 30st June 311 59 13
By 31st July 314 137 67
By 31s August 318 380 90%
By 15th September 318.516 421.69 100
(FRL Level)
The Executive Engineer located at dam site should use his discretion based on particular River
behavior and judgement to make slight variation in the above arrangement in order to
stagger the out flows from the reservoir with floods to safeguard the flood situation.
2.3.5 RELEASE OF SURPLUS WATER
If reservoir levels increase beyond the levels indicated above on or before the prescribed
dates, the radial gate shall be cautiously opened by issuing warning by sirens and wireless
messages to all concerned authorities as prescribed.
By 15th September the reservoir should be near about FRL as after 15th September, the river
discharge reduces considerably and there are little chances of filling the reservoir after this
date.
During very high flood when reservoir water is at FRL, the incoming flood will have to be
passed over spillway taking care that rate of out flow does not exceed the rate of inflow in
the reservoir. The rate of rise of reservoir water level may be restricted to 10 cm /hour after
FRL so that the flood can be safely moderated and regulated for the prolonged period of
about 30 hours, without crossing MWL, thereby reducing spillway discharge and minimizing
downstream damages. Based on particular river behavior, Project authorities shall take
20
judgement to make variation in the above arrangement in order to stagger the out flows
from the reservoir with floods to safeguard the flood situation.
2.3.6 DISCRETION OF FIELD ENGINEERS
The above recommendations shall be treated as guidelines for average monsoon and run-off
conditions. The field Engineer should be extremely vigilant and will closely watch the rainfall
pattern, storms and resulting yields and floods during the month of August and 1st fortnight
of September and take decisions accordingly so that excessive releases are not made, nor
water is stored more than required, necessitating heavy peak flood releases in panic.
The knowledge, experience, and ingenuity of the officer in charge of the reservoir operation
blended with fast processing of rainfall and G.D. data of catchment area would provide the
best solution for the operation of reservoir.
2.3.7. FLOOD PROTECTION AND FLOOD MODERATION
The detailed project report (DPR) does not provide for flood protection. However, through
judicious and cautious reservoir operation, peak flood can be moderated to some extent
thereby reducing damage & submergence of life and properties.
2.3.7.1 PMF & MODERATED FLOOD
The designed maximum flood (PMF) in cumecs, moderated flood at MWL in cumecs at FRL
& MWL are RL. in m respectively are to be considered. Rules curves/Regulatory Plan for
reservoirs, if not available, could be developed as per I.S 7323 - Operation of Reservoirs –
Guidelines or as per any other suitable reference and included in the O&M Manual.
2.3.7.2 SAFETY ASPECTS
The public safety is of paramount importance at all dams and reservoirs. The general
instructions in this regard are as under:
• State procedures to be followed for restricting access to the dam or confining traffic to
designated areas. Indicate the procedures to be followed when tourists visit the facility.
• Designate speed limits to keep the traffic within acceptable and safe limits.
• Establish standards for maintaining sanitary conditions.
• Prevent contamination or pollution of water for human consumption and/or re -creational

use.
21
• Eliminate safety hazards by:
- Posting warning signs.
- Removing unsafe conditions where possible.
- Restricting public access to chutes, stilling basins, and control rooms.
- Posting safety instructions at visible and key locations.
- Maintaining warning buoys stream of the dam.
- Providing adequate security.

• Ensure provision of all downstream warning systems like sirens, hooters etc. An adequate
system of giving information to downstream areas regarding release of flood outflows from
spillway should be there.
At the same time instructions regarding operations, inspection and maintenance need to be
strictly followed for ensuring safe operation of the dam.
2.3.7.3 FLOOD RELEASE PROCEDURE
Surplus waters during floods are released through a service spillway, emergency spillway,
fuse plug, outlet works etc. as applicable.
The service (principal) spillway maintains the reservoir at Full Reservoir level (FRL). Its
function is to pass expected flood flows past the dam safely. It may be gated or un -gated. It
is necessary to ensure that all gates are in working condition. Normally these spillways are
standard ogee, chute, or side-channel spillways.
2.3.7.4. GATE OPERATIONS
The gate operation schedule for passing floods safely must be prepared based on the project
layout and the results of hydraulic model studies. The following general guidelines may be
borne in mind while preparing the gate operation schedule:
• The regulation of gates should be based on model studies where such studies have been
carried out. Otherwise, the regulation can be based on past experience of operation of the
gates and design studies carried out for developing the same. The aim will be to ensure safety
of the dam structure including the gate components, hoists, energy dissipation arrangement
and downstream channel while letting out the desired discharge.
22
• The end gates shall normally be opened first to prevent cross-flows striking against the walls
and junctions.
• At any time during the operation of different gates, the difference in gate opening of any
consecutive bays should not exceed 0.5 meters.
• After opening the end gates, the gates at the center should be opened and the other gates
should be opened in symmetrical manner starting from the center towards the end through
gradual increase in the openings.
• While closing the gates, that was opened last should be closed first. The procedure to be
followed for closing gates should be generally reverse of the procedure to be followed for
opening the gates. Complete closure of the gates should be accomplished by gradual
lowering of the gates by 0.2. to 0.3 m in the proper sequence.
• In some cases all the gates will be opened equally especially when the energy dissipation
arrangement consists of solid rubber bucket or slotted roller bucket.
• For all major projects in Telangana, the dam authorities shall mandatorily prepare the gates
operation schedule in consultation with TSERL.
2.3.8. RESERVOIR CAPACITIES
The important reservoir levels such as sill levels of various outlets in the dam, MDDL, Spillway
Crest level, Full Reservoir Level, Maximum Water Level, and corresponding reservoir
capacities should be included (See Figure 2-3) Figure for reference to be included in the
manual. Also it is essential to include Area-Capacity data (both in the form of tables and
curves) in the Manual.
The O&M manual should mention that the reservoir capacities may change because of
sedimentation that reduces the available storage volume over time. Revised area- capacity
curves need to be prepared whenever a new bathymetric survey of a reservoir is carried out.
The frequency of this survey will depend upon reservoir siltation rates and other factors as
applicable (approx. 10 years).
2.3.9. INFLOW FORECASTING
Inflow forecasting should include instructions and procedure for preparing, periodic
estimates of inflow volumes especially for the monsoon season. These estimates provide a
23
basis to plan reservoir and project operations before and during the flood season and to
permit optimization and coordination of water supply and other reservoir functions. Also,
these estimates will help in planning operating procedures consistent with operating criteria
to protect the dam and its appurtenances against failure caused by high reservoir water
levels and excessive discharge rates.
The instructions and procedures should be described in sufficient details and completeness
in a referenced Supporting Document to enable newly assigned personnel to estimate
inflows and to fully implement the procedures. Maps or drawings could be used to show
locations of Hydrological stations in the drainage area where data such as river gauge,
discharge, rainfall, sediment is collected on a regular basis.
Administrative and technical procedures should be included. Administrative procedures
should identify organizations responsible for forecasting estimates and the related collection
of data and conversion of forecasts into operating plans. Technical procedures shall include:
• Parameters to be measured / monitored in hydro-meteorological stations.

• Specific correlations, equations, graphical tools, and analytical procedures used in
forecasting inflow, such as early warning systems, rule curves, etc.
• Instructions regarding at what frequency forecasts are to be made under various conditions.
The supporting document should include a description of the procedures and criteria used
by those agencies and instructions for operating personnel in the use of such forecasts.
Development of inflow forecasting procedures is a continuing process because correlations
are subject to revision as more data become available. Hence, instructions in the Supporting
document should include a requirement to examine the procedures periodically and to make
revisions and improvements where needed.
2.4 Emergency Operations

Dam owners and operating personnel must be prepared to act promptly and effectively when
a dam begins to show signs of failure. Early identification of a Hazardous Situation may provide
additional time to warn and evacuate downstream residents and to implement measures to
prevent or delay dam failure. Because failure of a dam may take only minutes or hours, it is
imperative to have a detailed plan of action ready to use. This plan, an emergency action plan
(EAP), should include procedures for notification and coordination with local law enforcement
24
and other governmental agencies, information on potential areas of inundation, plans for
warning and evacuation, and information on resources and procedures for making emergency
repairs.
2.4.1. IDENTIFICATION OF EMERGENCY CONDITIONS
Early identification of hazardous conditions at a dam will allow prompt implementation of
emergency actions and procedures. Dam owners and operators should be familiar with the
principal types of failure and their telltale signs. If any of the following conditions are noted, the
EAP should be implemented immediately.
1. The dam is overtopping or nearly overtopping. The dam owner or operator should closely
monitor the level of the reservoir during periods of heavy rainfall and runoff. If the spillway
and reservoir storage capacities are exceeded, overtopping will occur. Overtopping could
result if a large slide in the upstream or downstream slope of the embankment significantly
lowers the dam crest. Blockage of spillways may also cause overtopping of a dam.
2. Piping (internal erosion of soil from the dam or its foundation) has developed. Piping is
usually indicated by a rapid increase in seepage rate, a muddy dis charge at or near the
downstream toe, sinkholes on or near the embankment, and/or a whirlpool (eddy) in the
reservoir. Boils at or near the downstream toe may be indications that piping is beginning.
3. A large slide develops in either the upstream or downstream slope of the embankment and
threatens to release the impounded water.
4. Sudden and rapid failure of an appurtenant structure threatens complete failure of the dam
and release of its impoundment.
2.4.2. WARNING AND EVACUATION PLANS
Certain key elements of information must be included in every warning and evacuation plan.
Information about potential inundation (flooding) areas and travel times for the breach (flood)
wave is essential to the development and implementation of these emergency plans.
Inundation maps showing potential areas of flooding because of dam failure are especially
useful. The development of inundation maps requires the assistance of an engineer with
expertise in this area.
Local officials and dam owners will have to use common sense in determining necessary areas
of evacuation. Areas nearest to the dam must be evacuated first. Flood Prone Area maps can
provide route approximations of necessary evacuation areas. However, the evacuation areas
25
should be extended beyond the limits of the maximum flood area shown on these maps, as
floods resulting from dam failures are usually more widespread and destructive. In making
these determinations, it is always better to err on the conservation side.
Whenever possible, warning of a dam failure or an impending dam failure should follow
procedures already established for other emergencies. However, it must be stressed that
warning and evacuation times will be limited, and that immediate evacuation must follow.
Warnings delivered through personal modes such as telephones, loudspeakers, and face-to-
face communications are more effective than warnings delivered impersonally, by sirens for
example. Persons delivering the warnings should always say "the dam is failing," and not
"flooding is expected." Warnings should be clear and concise. Residents should be advised to
move to safety immediately. Radio and television news media should be used to the extent
available and appropriate. Residents are more likely to respond if they receive warnings from
several sources.
2.4.3. RESOURCES AND PROCEDURES FOR MAKING EMERGENCY REPAIRS
After making appropriate notifications of a possible dam failure, and implementing

warning/evacuation procedures, the owner should initiate efforts to prevent or delay failure of
the dam. Because of the likely limitation on time, it is important to identify in the EAP the
location of available resources with which to attempt to avoid (delay or prevent) the failure.
Any emergency repair will require equipment, materials, labor, and expertise. For large
reservoirs where failure could result in loss of life or severe damage to high-value property,
materials (clay, sand, gravel, stone, riprap, sandbags, cement, plastic sheeting, etc.) and
equipment for handling these materials should be kept at the site. If this provision is not
possible, then prior arrangements for use of locally available off-site materials and equipment
should be made in case of emergency. A list of contractors and other labor sources should be
maintained.
It is also important to know what types of emergency repairs should be attempted for the
different modes of failure. The following descriptions of possible actions to take to avoid failure
are offered. Caution must be exercised by those working around the dam during the
implementation of any of these emergency measures.
26
2.4.4. OVERTOPPING: EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN

If overtopping appears imminent, the following actions should be taken: Notify local
authorities and state dam safety officials of possible failure.
1. Be sure that the spillways are not plugged with debris and are functioning as efficiently as
possible. Debris removal may be difficult due to pressure from the high velocity flow and should
be accomplished by using long poles or hooks. Personnel should not be allowed close to spillway
inlets.
2. Open all lake drains or other gates to lower the pool level. Pumps and/or siphons may also be
helpful on small reservoirs.
3. Dig a by-pass channel around the dam through an abutment. The location for this channel
should be chosen with extreme caution so that the embankment will not be affected by rapid
erosion of the channel. This action should not be undertaken without the supervision of an
experienced professional engineer.
Great care should be taken when attempting to temporarily raise the top of embankments
with sandbags or by other means to try to prevent overtopping during a severe storm. This
is because the flood inflow may still increase and result in the overtopping of the raised dam.
If the temporarily raised dam fails, the release of an even greater volume and depth of water
would result. If damage has occurred, as the result of overtopping, the reservoir must be
drained until repairs are completed.
2.4.5. PIPING: EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN
If piping has developed, the following actions should be taken:
1. Notify local authorities and state dam safety officials of possible failure.
2. Open all lake drains and other gates to lower the pool level. Pumps and/or siphons may also
be helpful on small reservoirs.
3. If the "pipe" has not developed too far upstream, a temporary remedy may be to cover the
discharge area with sand and gravel and riprap to prevent soil from washing out of the dam.
4. If a whirlpool is visible in the reservoir, attempt to plug the "pipe" at the upstream end by
dumping material into the whirlpool or sinkhole. Straw has been used e ffectively for this
purpose. If straw is not readily available, anything (earth, rock, sandbags, etc.) should be
tried.
5. If the "pipe" is plugged, the dam authorities should be aware that this is only a temporary
27
repair. The reservoir must be fully drained, and a professional engineer contacted to develop
plans for permanent remedial measures.
2.4.6. STRUCTURAL FAILURE OF EMBANKMENT OR APPURTENANCES: EMERGENCY ACTION

PLAN
If a sudden and rapid failure of an appurtenance or a large slide in the embankment has
occurred, the following actions should be taken:
1. Notify local authorities and state dam safety officials of possible failure.
2. Open all lake drains and other gates to lower the pool level. Pumps and/or siphons may
be helpful on small reservoir. The impoundment shall remain drained until approval to
impound is given by the Division of Land Resources.
3. Attempt emergency repairs to prevent or delay failure.
Slides may be caused by seepage pressures, a saturated slope, a slope which is too steep, or
possibly an earthquake. If a large slide in the upstream or downstream slope has occurred
which significantly lowers the dam crest and threatens to release impounded water,
sandbags can be used to temporarily raise the crest to prevent overtopping. On large
reservoirs, breaching and rapid erosion of the upstream slope by wave action could occur
due to high winds. A complete breach of the dam crest may result if the slope protection
fails, and bare soil is exposed to wave action. A supply of large rock should be available for
use during this type of emergency.
Temporary repair of appurtenant structures will depend on the nature of the problem.
Permanent repairs must be made in accordance with plans developed by a professional

engineer with experience in dam design.
2.5 Drawdown Facility

All water release facilities, including outlet works, sluices, gated spillways, and power
penstocks should be considered available for evacuation to the extent that their reliability in
an emergency situation can be reasonably certain. In the case of canal outlet works, there
must be a bypass or waste way for such outlet works to be considered available for
emergency releases. Otherwise releases through them will be considered equal to the design
capacity of the canal.
28
Reservoir level may be required to be lowered if a critical/emergency condition occurs or

for carrying out repairs to the dam on its upstream slope/face in dry condition. For general
guidance the ACER Technical Memorandum no. 3 - Criteria and Guideline for evacuating
storage reservoirs and sizing low level outlet works & IS: 15472 - Guidelines for planning of
low-level outlets for evacuating storage reservoirs may be referred to. Care is to be taken to
restrict the reservoir drawdown rates to prevent failure of upstream slope of the
Embankment/ landslides along reservoir periphery etc. This will vary from dam to dam and
project to project. The actual drawdown rates both under normal and emergency conditions
must be decided by the Dam Designers.
The Central Water Commission (CWC) Guidelines on Criteria for Evacuating Storage
Reservoirs, Sizing Low Level Outlets and Initial Filling of Reservoirs are at Appendix – E
2.6 Initial Filling of Reservoir

First filling of a reservoir is first indication that the dam is safe and will function as designed.
Therefore, first filling of a reservoir should be carefully planned and implemented to ensure
safety of the dam and future success of the dam. USBR & USACE (2012) studies indicate that
approximately two- thirds of all failures and one-half of all dam incidents occur on first filling
or in the first 5 years of reservoir operation. Thus, it is vital for dam operators and engineers
to have as much control over the first filling as possible allowing as much time as needed for
appropriate surveillance, including the observation and analysis of instrumentation data. De -
pending on the location, type, size, and intended purpose of a dam, the duration and rate of
its first filling can vary. Regardless of how much time it takes, the first filling of a reservoir
should be planned, controlled, and closely monitored to reduce the risk of failure. The prime
consideration in deciding the rate of reservoir rise should be to allow the dam to adjust to
the forces it will experience as the water level behind it increases.
In addition to dam failure, it is common for design, construction, and/or material deficiencies
of a new dam to become apparent during the first filling. For example, evidence of seepage,
cracking, and erosion are often noted when the reservoir is raised to new levels for the first
time. Inspection and assessment of these potentially hazardous conditions prior to the
completion of filling is important and it may be necessary to halt filling or in some cases lower
the reservoir before the desired operating water level is achieved to investigate signs of
29
seepage, cracking and erosion. Repairs to any project features that did not function as
designed can be re-evaluated and modified to ensure the dam operates according to its
original design.
All the water release facilities including gated spillways, outlet works, sluices etc. are to be
used for control of reservoir levels during initial filling. The O&M Manual should be available
before initial filling of the reservoir.
The initial filling criteria for the reservoir shall be available in a separate supporting
document which shall be referenced in the O&M Manual.
Before initial filling of the reservoir is taken up, the State Dam Safety Organization shall
arrange for safety inspection of the dam either through its own engineers or by an in -
dependent panel of experts, who shall also examine the initial filling program and prepare a
detailed report in respect thereof.
Reservoir filling schedule is governed by the Indian Standard, IS: 15472 - Guidelines for
planning and design of low-level outlets for evacuating storage reservoirs in which the
Guidelines regarding initial filling of reservoirs have been described. It stipulates that the
filling rates for concrete/masonry dams are much less restrictive than for embankment dams
and specify a general initial filling program in respect of embankment dams, which can be
suitably modified as necessary, as under:
a) The first stage consists of filling the reservoir up to MDDL. This filling can be done without
restraint as the hazard potential to the public and economic development downstream of
the dam is low.
b) The second stage consists of filling the reservoir from MDDL to the crest of spillway. For earth
and rock fill dams this stage filling should be done in two parts.
The reservoir above MDDL should be gradually built at a rate not exceeding 3 m per fortnight
and filling should be temporarily stopped at half the height between MDDL and crest of
spillway, for a reasonable time in order to assess the behavior of the structure on the basis
of observed values and to take a decision about further storage and remedial measures in
case of distress.
After a decision is taken to continue the filling, further building up of the storage should be
done in gradual sub-stages of 2 to 3 m per fortnight depending upon the height of the dam
30
and increase in storage capacity. The reservoir should then be temporarily held at the crest
level of the spillway for a reasonable time for monitoring and evaluating the performance of
the dam and to take a decision about further storage.
c) The third stage consists of filling above the crest of the spillway up to the full reservoir level
(FRL). The rate of reservoir filling above crest of spillway should be restricted to sub - stages
of 0.3 m in 48 h. The reservoir should be temporarily held at half the height between FRL and
crest of spillway for sufficient time for monitoring and evaluating performance of dam and
to take a decision about further storage/remedial measures, if any.
Central Water Commission (CWC) Vide letter no.L25/86-DSS/509 dated 13th May 1986
has stipulated reservoir filling schedule in respect of Concrete Dams as under:
The first stage consists of filling the reservoir up to Minimum Draw down Level (MDDL). This
filling can be done without restraint.
The second stage consists of filling the reservoir from MDDL to the crest of spillway. The
reservoir above MDDL should be gradually built up at a rate not exceeding 3 meters per
fortnight depending upon the height of the dam and held at the level of crest of spillway in -
order to assess the behavior of the structure on the, basis of observed data and to take a
decision about further storage.
The third stage consists of filling above the crest of the spillway and up to full reservoir level
(FRL). Above the crest level of spillway, the building up of water level till FRL should be
restricted to 0.3 meter (1 ft.) in 48 hours and the same should be temporarily held at half the
height between the crest of spillway and FRL to monitor and assess the behavior of structure
before further filling resumed. The period for which the reservoir is held at this level will
depend on the instrument response time.
In case of concrete dams having high earthen flanks, the procedure suggested for earthen
dams should be followed
2.7 Record Keeping

• As already suggested, operating a dam should include keeping accurate records of the
following items pertaining to project operation: -
• Release through outlet/sluices on daily basis for irrigation, water supply, hydropower etc.
31
• Outflows through spillway during monsoon on hourly basis and during non- monsoon on
daily basis.
• Records of drawdown with reservoir levels, quantity of water released, draw - down rates,
reason for drawdown.
• Rainfall in the influencing rain gauge stations on daily basis.
• Water Audit register to be maintained on daily basis by accounting all the releases,
incremental storage in the reservoir etc.
• Security protocols to be in place along with operating protocols.
• Visitors register with complete details like name, address, designation, purpose etc.
• Other procedure - Maintain a complete record of all operating procedure.
32
Annexure I
Sample Rule Curve for Major Irrigation Project

The rule curve (also called guide curves) elevations of a major Irrigation Reservoir as shown
in the table below for reference purpose:
Table 3 : Sample Rule Curve for Major Irrigation Reservoir
Fortnight /month For FRL 5I9.6 m

June-IF 508.62
June-2F 513.60
July-IF 517.11
July-2F 513.60
Aug-lF 518.66
Aug-2F 519.60
Sep- IF 519.60
Sep-2F 519.60
Oct- IF 518.18
Oct-2F 519.60
Nov-IF 516.8I
Nov-2F 519.60
Dec 513.02
Jan 513.02
Feb 508.62
Mar 508.62
Apr 508.62
May 508.62
(Note: 1F- Fortnight 2F- Second Fortnight)
These elevations are the target reservoir levels to be achieved at the end of respective
fortnights during June to November and respective months during December to May, for
optimal power production without detriment to irrigation. The rule curve elevations are
shown graphically on the following page in Figure 3. The major principle adopted in
developing the working Tables is that, after irrigation releases are made, if the reservoir is
above the rule curve elevation, water would be released through the turbines. This
maximizes the power production on an annual average basis.
33
Major Irrigation Project Dam - Rule Curve

522
520
Reservoir Elevation in Meters
518
516
514
512
510
508 For FRL 519.60 m
506
504
502
June 1F
June 2F
May
Mar
Apr
Sept 1F
Sept 2F
Dec
Jan
Feb
Oct 1F
Oct 2F
July 1F
July 2F
Nov 1F
Nov 2F
August 2F
August 1F
Period - ForeNight/Month
34
Chapter 3:
3:PROJECT
PROJECT INSPECTION
An effective inspection program is essential to identify problems and to keep a dam in a good
and healthy condition. Detailed description on type of project inspections is available in the
Guideline for Safety Inspection of dams: (Doc. No. CDSO_GUD_DS_07_v 1.0), CWC 2018.
However, an overview of the various types of inspections is given below:
3.1 Objective of dam inspection

The principal purpose of dam safety inspection is to determine whether the structural and
operational aspects of the dam and its component parts are functioning safely in accordance
with the design and established standard/ acceptable practices. It helps to identify
deficiencies or concerns that potentially affect the safety of the dam and to take corrective
actions to remedy those deficiencies before serious consequences develop.
The objectives of dam safety inspections are to:
• ascertain the dam system is performing as expected,
• identify deficiencies or areas that need monitoring or immediate repair,
• assess the soundness of the dam and record any changes that have occurred,
• collect information to make informed decisions about needed remedial measures, and
• find out if the dam is being operated and maintained properly
3.2 Types of dam safety inspections:
Four types of dam safety inspections are to be carried out. For all dams:
1) Informal inspections
2) Scheduled inspections
3) Special (unscheduled) inspections
4) Comprehensive Evaluation inspections.
The frequency of each type of inspection will depend on the hazard classification of the dam,
the condition of the dam and the CDSO regulations etc.
35
3.2.1. INFORMAL INSPECTIONS

The informal inspections are performed by the Engineer-in-charge of the dam and his staff
while carrying out their regular duties. Informal inspections assist in a continuous
surveillance of the dam which is critical to proper operation and maintenance of the dam.
They consist of frequent inspections for observing the general issues/problems and
functioning of the dam and appurtenant structures. The informal inspections are important
and performed at every available opportunity.
The informal inspections are not as detailed as comprehensive, scheduled, and special
inspections. The informal inspections include vigilance in observing the structure, walking
along the dam, checking the operating equipment, and noting the changes and conditions
for avoiding serious mishaps or dam failures. A formal report be submitted to the dam
authorities only if a condition is detected that might endanger the dam.
3.2.2. SCHEDULED INSPECTIONS

Scheduled inspections are performed to gather information on the current condition of the
dam and its appurtenant works. The scheduled inspections consist of pre -monsoon and post
monsoon inspections and other scheduled inspections. The Pre - & Post monsoon inspections
are to be conducted by field engineers every year as per the inspection schedule below. The
deficiencies noticed shall be endorsed to State Dam Safety Organization for scrutiny and
suggestion for possible remedial measures. Pre -Monsoon /Post-Monsoon inspection
checklist is herewith enclosed at the end of the chapter.
Table 4 : Inspection Schedule
Type of Inspection Last date for

Completion of Inspection Sending inspection reports
to SDSO
Pre-Monsoon 15th May 30th June
Post-Monsoon 30th November 31st December
[NOTE: These inspections are to be carried out by Superintending Engineer and Executive
Engineer]
Other Scheduled inspections are conducted as per the Action Plan considering 20% of the
projects and shall be inspected by Special Dam Safety Inspection Team (SDSIT)/ State Dam
36
Safety Organization (SDSO)Engineers depending upon the capacity of the dam along with
Mechanical Wing if required .
These inspections will include the following components as a minimum:
1. Review of the past inspection reports, monitoring data and photographs, maintenance
records and other pertinent data.
2. Inspection of the dam and its appurtenant works.
3. Preparation of a report with relevant documentation and photographs.
3.2.3. SPECIAL(UNSCHEDULED) INSPECTIONS

Special inspections are performed to resolve specific problems of the dam. This is performed
by an independent Special Dam Safety Inspection Team (SDSIT). Special inspections are not
regularly scheduled activities but are usually made before or immediately after the dam or
appurtenant works have been subjected to unusual events or conditions, such as an
unusually high flood or a significant earthquake or on the request of Project authorities.
Japan Water Agency (JWA) has developed an excellent system of carrying out inspections
after an earthquake event for Ichari dam, Uttarakhand. For details refer “Inspection manual
for Dam Field Engineers after seismic events, Ichari Dam,
Uttarakhand(CDSO_MAN_DS_01_v1.0), January 2018”.
3.2.4. COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION INSPECTIONS:

For comprehensive dam safety evaluation an independent panel of experts known as Panel
of Experts (PoE), is set up by the Government of Telangana which shall consist of experts
from the fields of Geology, Hydrology, Designs, and Construction for determinin g the
condition of dam and appurtenant works. The panel would undertake the evaluation of the
dam once in 10 years or after occurrence of any extreme events, if required. The State Dam
Safety Organization arranges the meetings and site visits of DSRP.
Terms of Reference (TOR) of comprehensive dam safety evaluation shall also include the
following:
a) General assessment of hydrologic and hydraulic conditions, review of design flood, flood
routing for revised design flood and mitigation measures.
b) Review and analysis of available data of dam design, construction, operation maintenance
and performance of dam structure and appurtenant works.
c) A visual inspection or field examination of the dam, its appurtenant works, and the
37
surrounding areas.
d) Review of the instrumentation records and structural behavior reports, if any.
e) Evaluation of procedures for operation, maintenance and inspection of dam and to
suggest improvements / modifications.
f) Evaluation of any possible hazardous threat to the dam structure such as dam abutment
slope stability failure or slope failures along the reservoir periphery.
The main objective of the Panel of Experts (POE) is to carry out an independent expert review
of the overall health status of the dam and to propose remedial measures.
38
PRE-MONSOON /POST MONSOON CHECK LIST
DATE OF INSPECTION: WATER LEVEL:

(ON THE DAY OF INSPECTION)
I. GENERAL:
1. Name of the Dam:
2. Purpose of Project: Irrigation /Power/Water Supply /Multipurpose/
3. Village
4. Mandal / District:
5. Global Coordinates: Latitude: Longitude:
6. Year of completion:
7. First filling (Year/ Level):
8. Benefits to accrue/ accrued a) Irrigation :

b) Water Supply :
c) Power :
d) Other benefits :
II. IMPORTANT CONTROLLING LEVELS (in metres) :
9. Top of dam level (T.D.L) :

10. Maximum Water level (M.W.L) :
11. Full Reservoir level (F.R.L) :
12. Sill level of Irrigation sluices :
13. Sill level of scouring sluices :
14. Spillway crest level :
15. Minimum draw down level :
16. Lowest riverbed level :
17. Deepest foundation level :
III. IMPORTANT SALIENT FEATURES:

1. Gross storage capacity at F.R.L (M Cum) :
2. Gross storage capacity at M.W.L (M Cum) :
39
3. Live storage capacity at F.R.L (M Cum) :

4. Dead storage capacity in (M Cum) :
5. Area of Fore-Shore at F.R.L (Ha) :
6. Total Catchment Area (Sq.Km) :
7. Inflow design flood
(PMF/SPF/Any other) (Cumecs) :
8. Spillway design discharge (Cumecs) :
9. Type, Number and Size of Gates (m) :
10. Height of the Earth dam (m) :
a) Above Deepest Foundation :
b) Above Lowest riverbed :
11. Height of Spillway/NOF from
Deepest foundation (m) :
12. Total length of dam (m) :
a) Length of earth dam :
b) Length of spillway :
c) Length of NOF :
13. Top width of Earth dam :
14. Total Ayacut (Ha): Wet: Dry: Total:
IV. DETAILS OF INSPECTION.

1. Name and designation of the Inspecting officers :
2. Name and designation of the field officers present :
3. Date of inspection and the corresponding Reservoir water level
a) Maximum and Minimum water levels reached
during the last season with dates :
b) Maximum overflows during preceding
monsoon with dates :
4. Does the officer – in – charge of the operation
and maintenance of dam possess all the records
as given in the Annexure – I (Ref. Annexure – I) :
5. History of past distress, if any, and
40
brief details of remedial measures carried out6. When and by whom was the dam
inspected immediately preceding this inspection :
7. Are the items pointed out during the last
Inspection properly attended to?.(If not
State deficiencies yet to be corrected) :
Separate logbook manual for the items 5,6&7 has to be enclosed. It should contain all the
observation v/s Recommendations in chronological order duly signed by the competent
authority as given in para 1 of the decisions taken by the SDSC meeting.
8. Whether Vigilance and Watch & Ward are provided :

9. Have the observations of inspecting officer in respect
of all the dam components are easily furnished as
given in the Annexure – II :
41
ANNEXURE – II
RECORDS REQUIRED AT SITE:
Records that may be required for proper inspection and maintenance shall be available
at site. These shall be properly maintained and kept up to date by including latest
information available. Data in respect upstream, gauging station, flood warning system and
communication channels, if installed, shall be properly maintained.
A. GENERAL:
1. Final detailed project report and details of modifications done
during construction and a set of final drawing (as executed). :
2. Index plan of the area in which the dam is located showing important
towns, roads, rail routes and communication facilities. :
3. Index plan of downstream area showing natural flood zone, flood zones
corresponding to spillway design flood and dam
peak flood and all-important towns, villages that are actually
lying in these flood zones. :
4. Contour map of dam site extending upto 200m or 10 times
the dam height (whichever is less) on upstream and downstream,
showing all features of the dam like toe lines, fills, drainage relief
walls, access roads etc. :
5. Records showing Drawing of longitudinal sections
of dam foundation or Cut-off trench showing details of
foundation strata, Stage wise construction of C.O.T
filling and raising of dam section or embankment
zoning details and foundation treatment. :
6 Records showing Drawing of cross sections of dam,
details or foundation treatment, under seepage control,
zoning internal and External drainage, all protective
arrangement and stage wise construction. :
7. Contour plan of dam site with foundation Levels :
8. Contour plan of Reservoir basin and F.R.L. Contour Plan :
9. Contour capacity and area capacity curve. :
10. Reservoir maps showing silted basin if observed. :
42
11. Plan of the catchment area showing

Rain gauge stations and capacities
of upstream storages. :
12. (i) Properties of Embankment Soils and Foundation Soils
adopted for design of Earth dam.
(ii) Material properties for NOF / Spillway. :
13. Details of design criteria followed. :
14. Design report on flood studies and
spillway design flood. :
15. Design reports of outlets, power outlets,
River sluices, intake, conduit, energy
dissipation arrangements and details
of gates and hoists. :
16. Geological data of the foundations
and abutments. :
17. Copies of Geological reports, details
of special foundation and abutment
treatment carried out. :
18. Record of Tail channel Geology and tail
Channel erosion. :
19. Instrumentation drawings with details. :
20. Instrumentation data and behavioral record. :
21. Details of communication system: Telephone, Mobiles,
Wireless etc., Directory of important key officers,
flood warning procedures. :
22. Flood forecasting system. :
23. Photographs showing various phases of :
Construction / pre-construction etc.
43
B. EARTH / ROCK FILL DAMS:

1. Stage–wise construction records of the dam showing
volumes and heights achieved in each season and
time rate of progress. :
2. Record of special compaction done near Concrete/masonry
structures, abutment contacts and outlet locations, if available.
Details and location of instruments embedded/installed in
and around the structure. :
4. Summarized data of observations on emergency / installed
instruments. :
5. Detailed drawings of all service facilities like internal :
lighting / general lighting arrangements.
6. Drawing showing the uplift measurements and pressure
relief arrangements. :
7. Summarized data of uplift pressures observed. :
8. Summarized data of seepage, Leaching observed in the
drainage gallery and on downstream face of the dam,
their locations etc. :
9. Record of corrective measures repair or treatment that have
been done subsequent to completion. :
10. Important inspection reports and reports of consultants. :
12. Photographs showing all phases of constructions. :
C. CONCRETE / MASONRY DAMS:

1. Details of construction History including stages of construction
particularly in low blocks where considerable time elapsed
prior to resumption of work. :
2. Summarized data on control tests, carried out during
construction in respect of concrete / mortar and their
constituent parts if available. :
3. Reports on hydraulic model studies. :
44
4. Drawings showing the details of energy dissipation

arrangements, including foundation levels of apron, training
walls and end weir. :
5. Details and location of instruments embedded / installed in
and around the structure. :
6. Summarized data of observations on embedded / installed
instruments. :
7. Detailed drawings of all service facilities like internal
Lighting, emergency lighting, in the drainage gallery etc. :
8. Drawing showing the uplift pressure measurements and pressure
relief arrangements. :
9. Summarized date of uplift pressures observed. :
10. Summarized data of seepage, Leaching observed in the drainage
gallery and downstream face of the dam, their locations, etc. :
11. Record of corrective measures / repair or treatment that have
been done subsequent to completion :
12. Important inspection reports and reports of consultants. :
14. Photographs showing all phases of construction. :
D. OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE:

1. Gauge data of the river prior to the
construction and after completion of work. :
2. Detailed observations of flood discharges :
3. Detailed observations of hydraulic performance
of energy dissipation basins. :
4. Record of past performance stating briefly the defects
developed and remedial measures carried out. :
5. Drawings of outlets, maximum discharge Capacity,
maximum design operating head. :
6. Standing orders regarding operation of the dam. :
7. i) Designs operation criteria :
45
ii) Standing operation procedures. :

iii) Flood Forecasting Procedures. :
iv) Gate operation procedures, History book, Logbook
for generation of Power. :
v) Emergency action plan. :
8. Standard reference literature for operation and
maintenance of reservoir, dam, ancillary work,
Instrumentation etc., including I.S. specification, code
manuals, manufacturer’s literature etc. :
46
ANNEXURE – III
INSPECTION OF DAMS AND ANCILLIARY WORKS:
Observations and
Item No. Items of Inspection recommendations of the
inspecting offer.
(1) (2) (3)
A . EARTH DAM:
I. DOWN STREAM DRAINAGE
1. Are there any Signs of water logging, slushy conditions
or growth of aquatic weeds on the downstream of the dam. :
2. Are there any standing pools of
water in the downstream area of dam?
If so, give their locations and extent. :
3. Are there any boils observed in the Vicinity of the
downstream toe of the dam. :
4. Is the downstream area sufficiently clear and free. :
5. Whether chainage stones are fixed up on the top of the dam. :
6. Whether the B.M. is connected with the G.T.S. :
II. TOE DRAIN CHUTES
1. Are the longitudinal toe drains
and chutes freely draining ? :
2. Is the pitching to the drains &
chutes intact. :
3. Is there any weeds growth in toe drains &
chutes. :
4. Indicate other defects noticed in these toe
drains& chutes, if any ?
III. OUTFALL DRAIN
1. Is the Out fall drain in proper shape and
grade and freely draining? :
2. Is the outfall drain properly cleaned and maintained? :
3. Does the outfall drain show any standing pools
47
of water or weed growth. :

IV. SEEPAGE MEASUREMENTS
1. Is the quantity of seepage being daily or periodically
measured with respect to water level in reservoir and recorded.
please check the registers and record Observations. :
2. Does it show any abnormal raise or fall? If, so, does it
have any relation to a Certain reservoir level elevation. :
3. Does the seepage flow show a turbid colour at any stage?
Was such a Phenomenon observed at any stage at any
location in the past. :
4. What is the measured rate of seepage flow with date
and reservoir level.
i) On the day of present inspection. :+
ii) Minimum since last June. :+
iii) Maximum since last June. :+
5. i) Is the portion of upstream and downstream of measuring
points of seepage easily accessible with proper steps and
path and free vegetation growth :
ii) Are the measuring points properly located, constructed
and maintained so as to give accurate and reliable
measurements of seepage. :
iii) Is the method of taking seepage measurements satisfactory. :
EARTH DAM SECTION - CREST (TOP WIDTH OF THE DAM):

1. Is the crest profile at proper elevation?
2. Is the surface of the crest free from undulations and
localized depressions or heaving?
3. Does it develop any visible cracks
in transverse or longitudinal directions.
4. What is the condition of the edges of the crest?
Is ramp provided? Have they got eroded and cut up resulting
in reduced effective width?
48
5. Is the crest free from local slips throughout its length on either side.
6. Do the headers, guard stones and parapet provided at the
edges of the crest appear in proper profile and plumb?
EARTH DAM SECTION - UPSTREAM AND DOWNSTREAM SLOPES:

1. Indicate the general conditions of upstream pitching,
Downstream pitching / turfing and rock toe.
2. Do the upstream and downstream slopes show any sign of
bulging or concavity? If so, indicate their locations and extent.
3. Are any longitudinal or transverse crakes noticed in any
part of the slopes?
4. Is there any profuse growth of bushes or weeds over any
portion of the dam? If so, indicate the locations.
5. Do the upstream or downstream slopes show existence
of crab holes or holes made by resents or burrowing.
6. Are there any wet or slushy patches and concentrated leaks / springs
or trickles observed on the downstream slopes or the toe?
If so, indicate their locations and extent. Please look out for
patches of extensive vegetation growth and examine them
carefully and record your findings.
7. Are all the rain cuts and erosion channels properly treated and made good?
8. Please indicate location or recurring damages if any.
JUNCTION OF EARTH DAM MASONRY – CONCRETE DAM SECTIONS AND OUTLETS:

1. Is there any existence of leaks springs or wet spots in the earth
work in the vicinity of the junctions between earth work
and masonry works? If so, what is the approximate
rate and color of the leakage? Does it turn
turbid at any time? Please ascertain from Enquiries
and record the findings.
2. Is there any tendency for separations cracking
settlement or upheaval of the earth work in the
49
vicinity of masonry or concrete? If so, indicate

the location and the extent nature of deficiency.
3. Is there any tendency for surface erosion at the junctions?
FUNCTION OF RELIEF WELLS:

1. Are the relief wells in good working conditions and functioning well.
2. Are the relief wells, properly cleared periodically? Please indicate the dates of last
cleaning and the next cleaning due.
3. Are the necessary plant and equipment for cleaning
relief walls, available with the office.
BREACHING SECTION (IF PROVIDED)

1. Is the Breaching section easily accessible?
2. Is the condition of the breaching section satisfactory?
3. Is the note of instructions as to when and how to operate
the breaching section satisfactory?
4. For reconstruction after the breach are the following items
decided in advance?
i) Quarry for embankment material.
ii) Suitable routes of access
iii) Agency, plant and machinery for its reconstruction.
iv) Is the maintenance staff fully aware of the instructions
at (3) and (4) of the above.
5. Ascertain and indicate the latest event of operation of breaching
section and its performance.
6. Is the surplus course from the breaching section required
up to natural valley?
7. Is the course formed?
8. Is the surplus course assigned later as agriculture land or house site?
9. If so, what steps are taken?
NOTE: - For items pertaining to spillway, Gates, sluices and
outlets etc., Please refer points 4,5,6,7,8,9,11,12,13, under
50
masonry/concrete Dams.
B. MASONRY / CONCRETE DAM:
Observations and
Item No. Items of Inspection recommendations of the
inspecting offer.
(1) (2) (3)
I. UPSTREAM AND DOWN STREAM FACES

1. Examine the monolith and construction joints for such
defects as cracks, open joints, spalling, seepage
leaching etc. and indicate the findings.
2. Is the upstream face of the dam in good condition?
If not, indicate the nature and extent of deficiency.
3. Is any spalling or cracking observed on the downstream?
face especially near the zone of concentration of stress
like the location of abrupt Change in geometry or at the
openings? If so, indicate the details or observations.
4. Is there excessive seepage/ sweating at any location on?
the down-stream face of the dam?
5. Examine the roadway/top of the dam for offsets, opening
of construction joints, condition of parapet,
drainage, lighting etc.,
II. DRAINAGE GALLERY

1. GENERAL:
I) Is the drainage gallery easily accessible? and does
it has adequate lighting facilities with sufficient stand
by units of lighting? If not, indicate the deficiencies.
ii) Are proper arrangements made for the measurement of
seepage into gallery? Is the seepage from?
a. Porous pipes.
b. Foundation drains.
51
c. Monolith joints.
d. Other seepage locations measured separately.
iii). Are the above arrangements Satisfactory?
2. SEEPAGE FROM FOUNDATION:

i) Is there has been a substantial reduction in the seepage
through the foundations? List due to choking
of the drain holes.
ii) Are all the foundation holes periodically cleaned? Indicate
last date of such cleaning and extent of variation observed in the seepage discharge
before and after the cleaning.
iii) Are measurements of uplift pressure taken regularly? What
was the uplift pressure at the highest reservoir level during
last season? Is observed uplift within design limits.
iv) Are the seepage water and the deposit in any form, the seepage
being regularly examined for chemical composition.
v) Is any seepage water spring is observed in the downstream?
area anywhere. If so, indicate the locations and state the
physical nature of this seepage, look out for such seepage spots particularly near the
dykes, fault zone etc.
Ascertain if any chemical tests are made of water
Samples from such springs for dissolved salts.
3. SEEPAGE FROM BODY WALL (NOF / SPILLWAY):

i) What is the seepage into gallery from the porous pipes
in the dam at F.R.L. condition. How does it compare
with the seepage (for the Corresponding water level)
when the reservoir was first filled?
ii) If there has been substantial reduction in this seepage,
ascertain and indicate the probable reasons there for.
iii) Is a Statement showing the surface area of the dam (water side)
calculated for each meter rise of water level available?
52
iv) What was the total seepage per square meter of upstream
face submerged during inspection?
v) Is there any excessive seepage from any body
drain or any other location in the gallery?
vi) What steps are being taken for regular periodical.
Cleaning of the porous pipes?
vii) Was there been a tendency for gradual reduction of
drainage through pipes and progressive appearance of
sweating on the Downstream face of the dam?
viii) Has there been considerable leaching from the seepage
water and deposition of lime near the seepage exit spot?
ix) Are the samples of the seepage water and the reservoir
water being regularly tested?
x) Has the total leaching been estimated?
xi) Is the seepage on the downstream face of the dam
measured? What was the seepage on the date of
inspection? What is the maximum seepage during the past
one year?
4. OPERATION & MAINTENANCE OF GATES

A) SPILLWAY GATES (RADIAL / VERTICAL):
No. & size, type of spillway gates and other gates wherever
applicable.
a. Are the following documents available at site
i. A complete set of detailed design calculations
together with the drawings of gates, gate grooves,
embedded parts, hoisting machines and controls etc.,
ii. Designer’s operating criteria and / or detailed operating
instructions for the various types of gates installed in the
dam.
iii. Maintenance schedule specifying each operation its
53
frequency and for due and done dates.

iv. Operating instrumentation with “Dos and don’ts” for all
operational units.
b. Is the condition of the steel surfaces and the surface points
deteriorated?
c. What is the general condition of rubber seals? Do any of the
rubber seals show signs of weathering, hardening, cracking,
or tearing and damage?
d. Do the rollers (whether applicable) touch the track plates
uniformly.
e. Are the Electrical motors, gear systems, limit switches
brackets, bush bearing etc. or hoist mechanism well
lubricated?
f. Are limit switches properly set. It is the operation of the
above smooth and satisfactory? If not, list out individual
results and observations.
g. Are the trunnion bearings of radial gates properly
lubricated?
h. Is the full length of wire rope of the hoist in sound
conditions and free from broken strands?
I. Is the Electrical wiring in sound condition
j. Is the alternative power system for gate operation working
properly? Give details of generating sets and stand by units
and the time required to operate all gates on the alternative
power system, based on actual latria operation, Check for
diesel stock for operation of generator, battery charger
available / battery available in spare.
k. Is the operation, which is stand by in case of electrical
hoists, tried and found satisfactory? Please take test; trial
and ascertain.
l. Are the hydraulic hoists working satisfactory
54
m. Are the trunnion hub and the brackets well maintained?

n. Are the trunnion likely to get submerged during actual
working of the spillway? if so, ascertain the causes for the
same and specified. Please enquire for occurrence of such
events if any.
o. Whether gate grooves are cleaned and no boulders, logs,
weed etc., got wedged
p. Is sufficient stock of spares which need frequent
replacement maintained at the site?
q. Is the staff posted at the site / maintenance and operation
of gates, hoist, equipment, and electrical installation, well
experienced fully / trained and conversant with the job
requirements and responsibilities
r. What is the exercising frequency? When were the gates last
exercised?
s. Performance during inspection.
t. Application of Cadmium compound to wire ropes.
u. Change over switches for main power supply to generator
supply are provided?
v. Frequency of greasing and lubrication to gates
w. Frequency of painting to gates
x. Working condition of generator.
5. SPILLWAY BRIDGE, HOIST BRIDGE, HOIST BRIDGE,

CATWALKS, AND OTHER BRIDGES WHEREVER APPLICABLE
a. Access to vital parts.
b. Are there satisfactory arrangements to prevent
unauthorized entry into the control structures and bridges?
c. When were the steel components painted last?
d. Is the surface of steel work and paint satisfactory?
e. Is the parapet or railing over the bridge sound and safe?
55
6. ENERGY DISSIPATION ARRANGEMENTS

a. Can the tail pond be drained easily for inspection of the
stilling basin? If not, what are the short comings? Please
ascertain and indicate the last event of inspection of stilling
basin and apron in good condition
b. Are there any indications of pitting, cracking, spilling, or
wearing of the surface of bleeding concrete? If so, please
give details of the nature and extent of the damage.
c. Is there any indication of abrasion and cavitation’s damage
(Pitting of concrete) especially at friction block / chute
blocks the surface near the lower tangent point and the end
sill?
7. WALLS
Guide walls/Divide walls, junction Wall/Returns / splay walls
etc. (Strike out whichever is not applicable)
a. Are all the location of such walls accessible for inspection,
maintenance, and repairs.
b. Is the drainage of back sides of the walls (wherever
applicable) from the weep holes satisfactory?
c. Is there any foundation erosion or scour noticed in the
vicinity of such walls?
d. Is there any foundation erosion or scour noticed in the
vicinity of such walls?
e. Is there any surface erosion damage caused to face of body
of such walls?
f. Is there any damage to guide bunds? If so, give details of the
damage?
8. END WEIR (END SILL)
i Is it accessible?
ii Is there any erosion pitting of spilling of the concrete /
masonry surface? If so, give details.
56
iii Is there any scour noticed on the immediate downstream of

such weir?
iv If so, give details of location and extent of such danger?
9. INSTRUMENTS INSTALLED AND OBSERVATIONS
a. Instruments installed
i Are all the instruments installed properly accessible?
ii Are all the locations properly lighted, ventilated and
adequately protected from possibilities of damages.
b. Are all the instruments in proper working order? Ascertain
the cases of instruments going out of order and indicate.
c. Are all the registers of observations posted up to date?
Please take test observations and put initials in the registers.
d. Are the instruments recalibrated periodically?
e. Are the instruments checked for faulty readings, and if so,
corrective measures taken from time to time
f. Horizontal & vertical alignment instrumentation
(inclinometers and inverted plumb bobs etc.). In concrete
structures does the measurements of inclinometers,
inverted plumb bobs or from the existing records of
alignment and elevation surveys indicate any change from
the original position of the structure.
g. Seismic instrumentation, does the existing records of
seismic instrumentation reveal the seismic activity in the
area and the response of the structure to fast earthquakes.
10. OUTLET
a. Is the air vent periodically cleaned?
b. Are there any structural damage to the intake walls? Such as
leakage noticed through walls.
c. Is there any leakage observed through the conduit,
concrete, or masonry?
57
If so, give details of its location and extent.

d. Take operating trials of the following as
provided and record the observations and defects noticed if
any.
i) Service – gate/s
ii) Emergency – gate/s
iii) Stop – log – gate/s
e. Are the trash racks (wherever provided) cleaned before
monsoon?
f. Are there vibration and notice noticed in operation of outlet
gates at any time? If so, are any periodical observations
taken to ascertain their severity?
g. Is there any structural damage to the energy dissipation
structures? If so, give the details of natural and extent of
damage.
h. Is there any seepage noticed ground the conduit as
ascertained from the observations of the downstream
conditions? If so, is it likely to
cause (in case of earth dams) erosion and piping?
10. OUTLET GATES
a. Is the surface of gates and the paint deteriorated?
b. Do the rubber seals show signs of weathering and damage
and need replacements?
c. Do all the rollers touch the track plates?
d. Are the rollers well lubricated?
e. Is the operation of outlet gates smooth?
f. Are the stem rods for lifting the gates straight?
g. Are the actual operation of lifting and lowering of the gates
and hoist mechanisms smooth and satisfactory?
h. Are all the gears and hoist mechanism well lubricated?
i. Is the storing arrangement for emergency gates and the
58
stop logs in satisfactory condition?

j. Are the seal plates in sound condition?
If not ascertain the type of damage and indicate.
k Is the full length of wire rope (Wherever applicable) of the
hoist in serviceable condition and free from any broken
strands? If so, Cadmium compound is to be applied.
l. Is sufficient stock of spares which needs frequent
replacement are maintained at site?
m. Whether hand cranks are kept under lock and key and not
attached on hoist mechanism when operated by electrical
energy?
n Weather warning sign indication “Danger, do not switch on”
is hung during maintenance?
o. Ascertain whether the operating crane is in working
condition
p. Weather there is a “Stand by” power supply?
q. The alternative sources of power
1. Is the generator in the working condition (Age)
2. Frequency of exercise.
3. Is it developing full voltage?
4. 4. Is the wiring intact? And is the change-
over Switch is in working condition.
5. Are the spares available at site?
12. RIVER OUTLET / RIVER SLUICE & GATES

a. Is the operation of the gate satisfactory?
ascertained by taking an operating trial? If not indicate the
defects noticed.
b. Ascertain whether the trash rack (whether provided)
cleaned before monsoon.
c. Ascertain whether there is excessive silting on the upstream
59
of the sluice.
d. Ascertain when were the gates opened for desilting etc.?
e. Please indicate whether there is any leakage through the
gates.
f. Is the condition of energy dissipation arrangements
satisfactory?
g. Is there any retrogression noticed in the downstream? If so,
give details of nature and extent damage.
13. EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
a. Are the project officials well conversant with the emergency
action plan, reporting procedures, warning procedures?
b. When was the emergency action plan last reviewed?
c. Are the communication directories updated?
d. Are the concerned authorities informed about the system of
emergency reporting procedures and warning?
e. Are the inundation maps updated?
f. Are available safety spots on the downstream of the dam
identified, and made known to the concerned authorities?
g. Is the communication system working satisfactorily?
h. Are adequate warning devices and facilities provided at the
dam?
i. Is the downstream warning system operational (Siren)
j. Are proper arrangements made for security of the dam and
preventing cases of un-authorized sabotage to the dam
works?
k. Is downstream warning system operable on alternative
power supply?
14. ACCESS ROADS
a. Is there a properly constructed and
well maintained all weathered road to the dam site.
b. What is the type of pavement of the access road and its
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condition?
c. Are there properly constructed and well-maintained access
road arrangements to the following components for
inspection /maintenance and repairs?
i. Top of the dam
ii. Spillway
iii. Gates and hoisting arrangement
iv. Drainage gallery
v. Bridge structures
vi. Downstream stilling basin
vii. Junction and abutments
viii. Inlet gates
ix. Outlet gates
x. Toe of the earth dam downstream drainage arrangements
on various access roads.
xi. All saddle dams
d. What is the general condition of all the structures on various
access roads?
Are all the structures on the access roads adequately safe,
for allowing passage of plant/ machinery for emergent
repairs?
15. COMMUNICATION FACILITIES

1. Are following facilities available at dam site?
i. Wire less
ii. Telephone
iii. Telegraph
2. Whether the following Meteorological observations are
made?
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a. Rainfall (ordinary and self-recording).

b. Evaporation (Pen – Evaporimeter)
c. Wind velocity and direction (Recorders)
d. Wave weight (Recorders)
e. Air temperature (Max/Min)
f. Reservoir water temperature (Thermometer)
g. Humidity (Wet and dry bulb temperature)
h. Atmospheric pressure (Barometer)
i. Sunshine (Sunshine recorder)
16. GENERAL ASSESSMENTS OF CONDITION OF THE DAM
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Chapter 4 : PROJECT MAINTENANCE
A good maintenance program will protect a dam against deterioration, prolong its life, and
greatly reduce the chance of failure. The dam authorities and operating and maintenance
personnel must be knowledgeable of the potential problems which can lead to failure of a
dam. Nearly all the components of a dam and its materials are susceptible to damage and
deterioration if not well maintained.
This Manual is to be referred to mainly for routine maintenance works.

For most of the rehabilitation works in respect of Condition based and immediate
maintenance works, the designs, drawings, and technical specifications will need to be
provided by the Designs offices.
Guidance of experienced engineers/panel of experts will need to be taken.
4.1 Maintenance Plan

Timely maintenance assures that a dam and reservoir would remain in a good working
condition and prevents more harmful conditions from developing.
4.2 Maintenance Priorities

Maintenance activities need to be prioritized. In order of priority, they need to be classified
under the head’s immediate maintenance & preventive maintenance.
4.2.1. IMMEDIATE MAINTENANCE

The following conditions are critical and require immediate action by Dam authorities.
• Evidence of excessive seepage through the Earth dam, exiting on its downstream face
or anywhere on the downstream of the dam and increasing in volume.
• Earth Dam showing signs of piping or internal erosion indicated by increasingly cloudy
seepage or other symptoms.
• An increase in the reservoir level to near the top of the dam.
• Water overtopping the earthen dam.
• An Earth dam about to be breached by erosion, slope failure etc.
• A spillway being blocked or with some inoperable gates.
Although the remedy for some critical problems may be obvious (such as clearing a blocked
spillway or repairing the spillway gates so that they are in working condition), the problems
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listed above generally demand the services of experienced engineers/expert panels familiar
with the design, construction, and maintenance of dams. An emergency action plan (EAP)
should be activated when any of the above conditions are noted.
4.2.2. PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

This can be classified as Condition based Maintenance and Routine Maintenance.
4.2.2.1. CONDITION BASED MAINTENANCE

The following maintenance should be completed as soon as possible after the defective
condition is noted.
• Removal of all vegetation and bushes from the dam and restoring any eroded areas
and to establish good grass cover.
• Fill animal burrows.
• Repair livestock trails and fences to keep livestock off dam.
• Restore and reseed eroded areas and gullies on embankment dams.
• Repairs of any cracks in earth dam.
• Repair of defective gates, valves, and other hydro-mechanical equipment.
• Repair any concrete or metal components that have deteriorated.
• Cleaning/Reaming of choked drainage holes in the dam body/ foundations in

concrete / masonry dams / spillways.
• Repair any damages on spillway glacis, piers, energy dissipaters, training/divide walls,
downstream areas etc.
• Controlling any heavy seepage in the foundation/ inspection galleries in

Masonry/Concrete dam.
• Repairs of any cracks/cavities/joints in masonry/concrete dam/spillway.
4.2.2.2. ROUTINE MAINTENANCE

Several tasks should be performed on a continuous basis. These may include but are not
limited to
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• Routine mowing, restore and reseed eroded areas and gullies on downstream face of the
embankment section and general maintenance including repairs/cleaning of surface
drains on downstream face & in the downstream areas.
• Observation of any springs or seepage areas, comparing quantity and quality (clarity)
with prior observations in the embankment section.
• Monitoring of development in the upstream watershed which would materially increase

run off and sediment from storms.
• Monitoring of downstream development which could have an impact on the dam and its
hazard category.
• Maintenance of Electrical & Hydro-Mechanical equipment and systems, e.g., servicing of
spillway gates, hoisting arrangements, irrigation outlet gates and hoists, and stand by
generator.
• Proper lighting at dam top.
• Monitoring of seepage in the earth Dam.
• Maintenance of all dam roads & access roads.
• Operation of electrical and mechanical equipment and systems including gates.
• To keep the gate slots, clear of silt/debris.
• Maintenance/testing of monitoring equipment (instruments) and safety alarms.
• Testing of security equipment.
• Testing of communication equipment.
• Any other maintenance considered necessary.
4.3 Procedures for undertaking Routine Maintenance works

4.3.1. EARTH WORK IN EARTHEN DAM
• The surfaces of an earthen dam may deteriorate due to several reasons. For example,
wave action may cut into the upstream slope, vehicles may cause ruts in the crest or
slopes, trails left by livestock can result in erosion, or runoff waters may leave erosion
gullies on the downstream slope. Other special problems, such as shrinkage cracks or
rodent damage, may also occur. Damage of this nature must be repaired constantly.
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• Conditions such as embankment slides, structural cracking, and sinkholes threaten

the safety of a dam and require immediate repair under the directions of experienced
engineers/experts.
• The material selected for repairing embankments should be free from vegetation,
organic materials, trash, and large boulders/rocks.
• If flow-resistant portions (core) of an embankment are being repaired, materials that

are high in clay or silt content should be used. If the area is to be free draining or
highly permeable (such as pervious shell of an embankment dam) the material should
have a higher percentage of sand and gravel. It is usually satisfactory to replace or
repair damaged areas with soils like those originally in place.
• An important soil property affecting compaction is moisture content. Soils that are
too dry or too wet do not compact well. One may test repair material by squeezing it
into a tight ball. If the sample keeps its shape without cracking and falling apart
(which means it is too dry), and without depositing excess water onto the hand
(which means it is too wet), the moisture content is near the proper level.
• Before placement of earth, the repair area needs to be prepared by removing all
inappropriate material. All vegetation, such as bushes, roots, and tree stumps, along
with any large boulders/rocks or trash need to be removed. Also, unsuitable earth,
such as organic or loose soils, should be removed, so that the work surface consists
of exposed, firm, clean embankment material.
• Following cleanup, shape and dress the affected area so that the new fill can be
compacted to the level specified in the technical specifications. Also, it should
properly key with the existing fill. Further trim the slopes and roughen the surfaces
by scarifying to improve the bond between the new and existing fill and to provide a
good base to compact against.
• Place soils in loose layers up to 20 cm thick and compact manually or mechanically to

form a dense mass free from large boulders/rock or organic material. Keep soil
moisture in the proper range. The fill should be watered and mixed to the proper
wetness and allowed to dry if too wet.
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• Erosion is one of the most common maintenance problems at embankment

structures. Erosion is a natural process, and its continuous forces will eventually wear
down almost any surface or structure. Periodic and prompt maintenance is essential
to prevent continuous deterioration and possible failure.
• Turfing, free from weeds and bushes, is an effective means of preventing erosion.
Rills and gullies should be filled with suitable soil, compacted, and then seeded for
growing the turfing. Erosion in large gullies can be slowed by stacking bales of hay
or straw across the gully until permanent repairs can be made. Paths due to
pedestrian, livestock, or vehicular traffic (two and four-wheeled) are a problem on
many embankments. If a path has become established, vegetation will not provide
adequate protection and more durable cover will be required unless traffic is
eliminated. Stones may be used effectively to cover such footpaths.
• In addition, steps can be provided/ constructed at regular intervals along the length
of the dam for going from downstream toe to the dam top. All vehicular traffic,
except for maintenance, should be restricted from the dam.
• Erosion is also common at the point where an embankment and the concrete walls
of a spillway or other structure meet. Poor compaction adjacent to such walls during
construction and later settlement can result in an area along the wall that is lower
than the grade of the embankment. Runoff, therefore, often concentrates along
these structures, resulting in erosion. People also often walk along these walls,
wearing down the vegetative cover.
• Workable solutions include re-grading the area so that it slopes away from the wall,
adding more resistant surface protection, or constructing steps.
4.3.2. UPSTREAM RIPRAP
• The upstream face of a dam is required to be protected against wave erosion. Riprap
is normally provided for this purpose with filter layers below. Nonetheless, erosion
can still occur in existing riprap. Water running down the slope under the riprap can
erode the embankment. Sections of riprap that have slumped down-ward are often
signs of this kind of erosion.
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• Effective slope protection must prevent soil from being removed from the
embankment.
• When erosion occurs on the upstream slope of a dam, repairs should be made as
soon as possible. (Refer IS: 8237- Code of practice for protection of Slopes for
Reservoir Embankments for specifications of stones to be used as riprap). The sunk
rip rap may be brought back to its original levels by backfilling with suitable material
duly compacted and with inverted filter as originally provided under the riprap.
Further the riprap must be tightly packed.
4.3.3. CONTROLLING VEGETATION
• Keep the entire dam clear of unwanted vegetation such as bushes or tree. All
bushes/trees should be as far as possible removed by roots. The resulting holes
should be filled with well compacted earth. It would be desirable to remove the
plants/vegetation at their early stage to prevent their growing into big trees/bushes.
In cases where trees and bushes cannot be removed, the root systems should be
treated with herbicide (properly selected and applied) to retard further growth.
Concerned Government Agencies should be consulted for selection of appropriate
herbicides & their use for control of vegetation on dam structures.
• Further, it is desirable that there are no trees or bushes within 500 m of the toe drain
on the down-stream side of the dam
• Mowing of turfing needs to be carried out at least twice in a year depending on its
growth.
4.3.4. CONTROLLING ANIMAL DAMAGE
• Livestock should not be allowed to graze on an embankment surface. When soil is

wet, livestock can damage vegetation and disrupt the uniformity of the surface.
Moreover, livestock tend to walk in established paths and thus can promote erosion.
Such paths should be re-graded and seeded, and the livestock permanently fenced
out of the area.
• The burrows and tunnels of burrowing animals (beaver, muskrat, groundhogs, and
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others) weaken earthen embankments and serve as pathways for seepage from the
reservoir. Large burrows on an embankment should be filled by mud packing. This
involves placing vent pipe over the entrance of the den. Making sure that the pipe
connection to the den does not leak, the mud-pack mixture is poured into the pipe
until the burrow and pipe are filled with the soil-water mixture. The pipe is removed,
and more dry earth is tamped into the entrance. The mud pack is generally made by
adding water to 90% earth & 10% cement mixture until a slurry or thin cement
consistency is attained. For bigger holes, bentonite coated stones can also be used.
All entrances should be plugged with well-compacted earth & vegetation re-
established. Dens should be eliminated without delay.
• Different repair measures are necessary if a dam has been damaged by extensive
small rodent tunneling or large rodent activity. Excavate the area around the
entrance and then backfill it with impervious material. This plugs the passage
entrance so that water is prevented from saturating the dam ‘s interior.
4.3.5. CONTROLLING ANTS AND TERMITES (WHITE ANTS)
• Ants and termites have become one of the most serious pests for Embankment dams.
They both need water to survive and have been found on most of the embankment
dams in India. These insects can create problems in the dam itself and with any of its
electrical components.
• In some habitats, ants and termites can move as much or more soil as earthworms,
thereby reducing soil compaction. Nest galleries can penetrate in a V -shaped pattern
below the nest, penetrating as much as more than one meter deep in the soil. These
galleries can create pathways for surface water to penetrate in the dam, resulting in
internal erosion and collapse of the surface.
• Ants and termites left undisturbed can build mounds that can become quite large.
These can create problems for mowing. However, frequent mowing can induce the
colonies to migrate to neighboring, undisturbed areas.
• There are many options for managing ants and termites. Use only pesticides labeled
as suitable for the location you want to treat. Make every effort to avoid
contaminating water with pesticides. Concerned agencies dealing with anti- termite
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treatment can be contacted.
4.3.6. CONTROLLING DAMAGE FROM VEHICULAR TRAFFIC
• As mentioned earlier, vehicles driving across an embankment dam can create ruts in
the crest if it is not surfaced with roadway material. The ruts can then collect water
and cause saturation and softening of the dam. Other ruts may be formed by vehicles
driving up and down a dam face; these can collect runoff and cause severe erosion.
• Vehicles except for maintenance should be restricted on the dam top and kept out
by fences or barricades. Any ruts should be repaired as soon as possible.
4.3.7. MASONRY/CONCRETE DAMS & SPILLWAYS

Various issues/problems that may need maintenance/repairs in Concrete/Masonry
dams & Spillways may include but are not limited to:
• Cracking in concrete (potential causes are alkali – aggregate reaction, thermal
stresses because of heat of hydration or temperature variations, foundation
problems).
• Damages on spillway glacis, spillway piers, training/divide walls, energy dissipaters,
downstream areas (probable causes are cavitation, abrasion, unsymmetrical flows,
unfavorable downstream conditions)
• Vegetation growth in unattended Auxiliary spillways, spill channel, approach channel
etc.
• Seepage in Galleries and on d/s face of the dam.
• Cleaning and removal of leached deposits from choked drainage holes in the dam
body/foundations.
• Repair to upstream face of masonry dams in case the pointing is damaged, leading
to increased seepage.
• To ensure proper access & lighting in galleries.
• To ensure that the dam is behaving as designed based on instrumentation programs.
• Periodic maintenance should be performed of all concrete surfaces to repair
deteriorated areas. Repair deteriorated concrete at the earliest; it is most easily
repaired in its initial stages. Deterioration can accelerate and, if left unattended, can
result in serious problems or dam failure.
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4.4 Hydro - Mechanical & Electrical Equipment:

Note: Operation and Maintenance of all the components of Hydro Mechanical & Electrical
components are described in detailed in "Operation & Maintenance Manual of Hydro -
Mechanical Equipment. - Government of Telangana."
4.5 Access Roads
For a dam to be operated and maintained there must be a safe means of access to it at all
times. Access road surfaces must be maintained to allow safe passage of automobiles and
any required equipment for servicing the dam in any weather conditions. Routine
observations of any cut and fill slopes along the sides of the road should be made. If unstable
conditions develop assistance of experienced Engineers/Expert Panels should be obtained
and remedial measures initiated.
Drains are required to be provided and maintained along roads to remove surface and
subsurface drainage. This will prolong the life of the road and help reduce deterioration from
rutting.
Road surface should be repaired or replaced as necessary to maintain the required traffic
loadings.
In most cases, specialized contractors will be required to perform this maintenance.
4.6 General Cleaning

For proper operation of spillways, sluiceways, approach channels, inlet, and outlet
structures, stilling basin/ energy dissipation arrangements, discharge conduit, dam slopes,
trash racks, debris control devices etc., regular, and thorough cleaning and removal of debris
is necessary. Cleaning is especially important after large floods, which bring a lot of debris.
4.7 Materials requirements for maintenance during monsoon period

Materials required during monsoon period for both immediate maintenance and preventive
maintenance should be stocked in adequate quantity. A 24x7 hour patrolling is to be carried
out during the monsoon period.
The dam owner should have a list of laborers and contractors who can be engaged
immediately at the time of emergency.
The materials normally required to be stocked in sufficient quantity are: -
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· Gunny Bags, Sand, Boulders/Wire crates, Bamboos / Bali’s, Baskets, ropes, Petromax Lamps
with Spares, Torches with spare cells, Diesel for DG set, Kerosene Oil, Match Boxes,
Raincoats, Gum Boots, Life Jackets, Warning sign indicator, Danger zone lights
·
4.8 Preparation of O&M budget
The O&M budget for should essentially include but not limited to the following items:
Establishment Cost of Regular Staff -
Salaries and allowances, Bonus, Medical Reimbursement, LTC, Leave Encashment, pension
benefits, etc. (as applicable).
Establishment Cost of Work charged Staff - Salaries and allowances, Bonus, Medical
Reimbursement, LTC, Leave Encashment, Pension benefits, TA and DA, etc. (as applicable).
Establishment Cost of Daily wage Staff - Salaries and allowances, TA and DA etc. (as
applicable).
Office Expenses –Rent for office, Telephone/Mobile/any other Telecommunication bills,
Electricity bills, water bills, Office stationery, Day to day office requirements.
Motor Vehicles - Running and Maintenance cost of inspection vehicles, Cost of hiring of
vehicles as required
Maintenance of Colony - Maintenance of staff quarters, colony roads, Electricity, Sanitary
and Water supply systems etc.
T&P - T&P requirements for offices, colony, works etc. as applicable.
Works - Painting, oiling, greasing, overhauling of HM equipment’s, Repair/replacement of
gates seals & wire ropes, POL for pumps & generator sets, Electricity charges and
maintenance of Electric systems of dam site, specific requirements for all Civil, H.M &
Electrical maintenance works, vegetation removal and mowing of turfing on earth dams,
maintenance/cleaning of drains in dam, maintenance of lift/elevators in dam (as applicable),
maintenance of access roads & basic facilities, provision for flood contingency works during
monsoon, unforeseen events/items (about 10% of the cost of works) etc.
4.9 Apportionment of O&M cost in respect of inter-state projects

Inter-State projects where benefits are accruing to different States, O&M costs including
the costs of special repairs are shared in the same proportion based on any existing
agreements or Tribunal Awards.
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4.10 O&M cost for dams where owner and operator are different
It has been seen that there are many Hydro-Electric Projects in our country which are under
the control of State Electricity Boards and the O&M of their dams and appurtenant works is
with the State Water Resources Departments. Very often the O&M of such dams gets
neglected due to non-availability of sufficient funds. As such, it is recommended that in such
cases the State Electricity Boards should provide for the O&M cost of their dams and
appurtenant works in their annual budget (based on the cost estimates obtained from
relevant Water Resources Departments) and transfer the said amount to the Water
Resources Departments for the O&M of the dams and appurtenant works. In cases where
the State Electricity Boards are paying levy or water charges to the Water Resources
Departments, the same should be utilized for the O&M of the dam
4.11 Maintenance Records

Maintenance records are of utmost importance. A record should be kept of all maintenance
activities, both immediate and preventive maintenance works. Information that should be
recorded includes the following as a minimum:
• Date and time of maintenance, Weather conditions,
• The type of maintenance, Name of person or contractor performing maintenance,
• Description of work performed, The length of time it took to complete the work
with dates, Equipment and materials used, and
• Before and after photographs.,

The data should be recorded by the person responsible for maintenance.
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Chapter 5: INSTRUMENTATION AND MONITORING
Instrumentation is the use of special devices to obtain critical scientific measurements of

engineered behavior. The primary purpose of instrumentation is to supply data to aid in
evaluating the safety of a structure by collecting quantitative data on its performance and
by detecting problems at an early and preventable stage. Most dam failures that have
occurred could have been avoided if the structure's behavior had been inspected,
monitored, and analyzed continuously, and proper corrective measures had been taken in a
regular interval.
Detailed description on instrumentation in dams is available in “Guidelines for
instrumentation in dams (CWC, 2018)”. However, an overview of the same is given below
5.1 Details to be included in an O&M Manual

The following details may be included:
• Details of instrumentation carried out in the dam including drawings showing
instrumentation details and cable layout.
• Frequency at which different instrument readings are to be taken.
• Interpretation of instrumentation data and preparation of structural behavior reports
periodically
• What is to be done in case some of the instruments are not in working condition?
Following are the suggestions in this regard:
• In case connecting cables of the non-working instruments are accessible, the manufacturer
of the said instruments should be approached for checking and rectification of the
installations to make instruments work.
• In case the embedded non-working instruments cannot be repaired, the same are to be
abandoned.
• Parameters being permanently Monitored
• Observations of the following parameters need to be continued:
o Water levels in the reservoir
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o Hydro-meteorological observations
o Seepage observations using Notches/weirs etc.
o Displacements in the dam by means of survey observations using prism/paper targets fixed
at structures. Tilt meters or repaired plumb lines could also serve the purpose.
o Uplift pressures at dam base using standpipes in Gravity dams.
5.2 Instrument Types and Usage

A wide variety of instruments and procedures are used to monitor dam behavior. The
parameters often monitored by instruments include:
• movements (horizontal, vertical, rotational, and lateral).
• pore pressure and uplift pressures.
• water level.
• seepage flow.
• water quality.
• temperature.
• Crack width.
• seismic activity.
• weather and precipitation data; and
• stress and strains
[ Detailed description is given in Chapter.5 Doc. No. CDSO-GVD-DS-03-VI.0 (CWC guidelines]
5.3 Frequency of Monitoring
The frequency of instrument readings or taking observations at a dam depends on several

factors including:
• the relative hazard to life and property it represents,
• its height or overall size,
• the relative quantity of water impounded,
• the relative seismic risk at the site,
• its age, and
• the frequency and amount of water
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• level fluctuation in the reservoir.
In general, as each of the above factors increases, the frequency of monitoring should
increase. For example, frequent (even daily) readings should be taken during the first filling
of a reservoir, and more frequent readings should be taken when water levels are high and
after significant storms and earthquakes. As a rule of thumb, simple visual observations
should be made during each visit to the dam and not less than monthly. Daily or weekly
readings should be made during the first filling. Immediate readings should be taken
following a storm or earthquake. Significant seepage, movement, and stress-strain readings
should be taken at least monthly.
5.4 Data Processing and Evaluation
The steps required to process and evaluate data, whether collected manually or
automatically, are the same. Instrument data should be processed and evaluated according
to the procedures established by the monitoring program. Accumulation of instrument data
by itself does not improve dam safety or protect the public.
5.4.1. DATA COLLECTION
Data collected manually should be recorded on the data sheets prepared as part of the
monitoring program. Complementary data, such as air temperature, reservoir level, reservoir
temperature, recent precipitation, and other information or observations that maybe
important in evaluating the instrumentation data should be noted on the data sheets.
5.4.2. DATA PRESENTATION
All data should be summarized in graphical form. All plots should include suf ficient previous
data to identify any long-term trends. Furthermore, the plots should be self-explanatory.
5.4.3. DATA INTERPRETATION
Data should be reviewed for reasonableness, evidence of incorrectly functioning

instruments, and transposed data. Several checks for reasonableness can be made on all
data. The magnitude of data should be near the range of previous data. Data that are
significantly different may be incorrect. All data will have scatter from instrument error,
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human error, and from changes in natural phenomena

such as temperature, wind, and humidity. The true accuracy of data will not be apparent
until a significant number of readings have been taken under a variety of conditions.
All data will follow trends, such as decreasing with time or depth, increasing with time or
depth, seasonal fluctuation, direct variation with reservoir or tail water level, direct variation
with temperature, or a combination of such trends.
5.4.4. DAM PERFORMANCE EVALUATION

The purpose of instrumentation and monitoring is to maintain and improve dam safety.
The data should be used to evaluate whether the dam is performing as expected and
whether it provides a warning of developing conditions that could endanger the safety of the
dam. All data should be compared with expected behavior based on the basic engineering
concepts. Variations from expected behavior may suggest development of conditions that
should be evaluated.
All data should be compared with design assumptions. If no unusual behavior or evidence of
problems is detected, the data should be filed for future reference. If data deviates from
expected behavior or design assumptions, action should be taken. The action to be taken
depends on the nature of the problem and should be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Possible actions include:
• Performing detailed visual inspection.
• Repeating measurements to confirm behavior.
• Re-evaluating stability using new data.
• Increasing frequency of measurements.
• Installing additional instrumentation.
• Designing and constructing remedial measures.
• Operating the reservoir at a lower level; and
• Emergency lowering of the reservoir.
5.4.5. METHODS OF BEHAVIOR PREDICTION

Each dam is a unique structure and has its own special conditions of siting, design,
construction, and operation. Rigorous methods of prediction have been developed over the
years. These methods apply the laws of physics to problems of slope stability, foundation
stability and rock deformation. Modern solutions use finite element or finite difference
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models run on computers. Such numerical analyses are expensive and for that reason are
generally used only for larger dams. Special analyses are made when investigations reveal
weak materials or other anomalies.
5.5 Visual Observations

Observations by on site personnel (dam owners/operators and maintenance personnel) may
be the most important and effective means of monitoring the performance of a dam. An
inspector, upon each visit to the dam site, should examine it visually - walking along the dam
alignment and looking for any signs of distress or unusual conditions.
*Any instrumentations pertaining to dam maintenance, if proposed, that Information should
be incorporated in the concern O&M manual.
(Detailed description is given in Chapter.5 Doc.No. CDSO-GVD-DS-03-VI.0 (CWC guidelines))
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Chapter 6: UPDATING THE MANUAL
As features of the dam and appurtenant structures change occasionally, the O&M Manual
must be edited, and portions rewritten to reflect these changes. This important task is often
ignored. Updating information in the O&M Manual should be done whenever major changes
like construction of an additional spillway, construction of dam on the upstream etc. take
place.
Aspects to be considered when updating include:
• Increase/decrease in the frequency of an inspection or the maintenance routine based on
additional data/ experience acquired.
• Changes in the operation and/or maintenance procedures based on additional
data/experience acquired.
• Alterations to the project data because of changes/modifications in the dam by way of
additional spillway etc.
All up-dates/revisions of the O&M Manual need to be sent to all the locations/addresses to
whom the copies of the original O&M Manual had been sent earlier. It is recommended that
O&M Manuals be reviewed/updated after every 10 years by the respective Dam Owners.
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Appendix A: Strengthening of Alarm and Warning System

NOTIFICATION FOR STRENGTHENING OF ALARM AND WARNING SYSTEM FOR SAFETY OF
PEOPLE FROM SUDDEN RELEASE OF WATER FROM DAMS ISSUED BY NATIONAL DISASTER
MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY (OCTOBER 2015)
Introduction
Dams are delivering enormous benefits to the nation through flood risk mitigation,
navigation, irrigation, hydropower, water supply, fisheries, wildlife conservation and
recreation. Dams store large amount of water; and an uncontrolled or excessive outflo w of
water from dam reservoir may pose unacceptable risks to the lives and property of people
downstream of dam. Sometimes, unexpected release of even small quantum of water during
day-to-day operation of dam reservoirs could also catch people unaware, and cause loss of
lives - recent Lalji dam incident (8 June 2014) is the tragic example which resulted in
drowning of 25 students in the river Beas in Himachal Pradesh. Strengthening of alarm and
warning system linked with dam operations can go a long way in ensuring safety of people
from sudden release of water through dam spillways.
Scope
This notification is intended to strengthen the alarm and warning system on India's dams for
safety of people from sudden release of water through dam spillways/river sluices. It is also
expected that the notification will sensitize and guide the dam operating staff in identifying,
monitoring, and responding to emergency situation that may arise at any downstream
stretch of the river due to sudden release of water from dam.
Applicability
This notification is applicable for enforcement by all dam authorities in charge of operation
of the dams. This is particularly applicable to barrages and independent outlet works which
are directly discharging into the river.
Measures for Strengthening of Alarm and Warning System
1. Reservoir Operation Manual, prescribing standard operating procedures for the day to day
as well as emergency operations of dam, shall be prepared by the concerned project
authorities/ dam owners (State Governments, Public Sector Undertakings, other
government, or private agencies). The Operation Manual shall spell out all possible scenarios
of operation of spillway gates and other outlet gates keeping in perspective the elevation-
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storage curve of the reservoir, the annual inflow pattern of the reservoir.
2. The annual water demand pattern of the project; and in case of hydropower projects, the
power demand and impact of load rejection on generating units.
3. The concerned project authorities shall carry out hydraulic routing studies for the down-
stream river reaches for different dam-outflow conditions to identify vulnerable areas in
terms of depth/level and velocity of flows. In such vulnerable areas, project authorities shall
mark danger levels at appropriate places and set up permanent warning posts (in English,
Hindi, and the local language) visible with naked eyes from reasonable distances. Movable
barriers may be installed to prevent the entry of people and vehicles during passage of flood.
4. The purpose of a flood warning service is to detect and forecast threatening flood events so
that the public can be alerted in advance and undertake appropriate responses to minimize
the impact of flood.
5. The vulnerable areas that pose very high-risk levels (e.g., river reaches very close to dam
locations) shall be fenced to bar free access of people. Development of river front from the
point-of view of tourism shall be allowed only at safe places; and in all such place s ample
care shall be taken to prominently notify risks associated with sudden release of wafer from
dam.
6. The concerned project authorities shall establish a Control Room to keep watch on probable
water inflows to have advance information and sufficient lead time for protective measures.
A proper coordination regarding releases of water during both normal and emergent
conditions shall be ensured with the immediate upstream and other cascading projects. The
work of Control Room shall be entrusted to duly qualified persons.
7. A foolproof warning system to alert downstream habitants before release of water shall be
put in place. The warning for release of water shall be given through Speakers, Sirens or
Hooters adequately in advance of dam releases (minimum 15 minutes); and all such
instruments shall be directly connected to the Control Room eliminating dependence on
watch- staff stationed at vulnerable areas. The warning system shall be backed up by
alternate power sources in Control Room as well as vulnerable locations to avoid
malfunctioning of system in case of power failures. The Sirens/ Hooters shall be
distinguishable from other common sounds like VIP vehicles, fire brigades, ambulances etc.
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8. Regular Inspection shall be carried out to ensure all time functioning of sirens, and periodical
mock drills shall also be planned for ensuring efficacy of the warning system.
9. Tourists entering the vulnerable zones shall be forewarned of dangers of sudden dam
releases. A suitable mechanism shall be developed in consultation with pertinen t telecom
service providers to send SMSs to such tourists whenever they enter vulnerable zones.
Attempts shall also be made to send SMSs related to extreme releases of water to all mobile
phones operating in the downstream vicinity of the dam project.
10. For dealing with extreme weather and flood conditions, accurate and reliable hydro
meteorological network, inflow forecasting, and communication mechanism shall be
established by the State Governments. Releases from the storage dams associated with
irrigation and flood moderation shall be planned in advance with the help of telemetry data
available on real time basis, and advance warnings shall be issued to the people. Such
information related to flood estimates and planned releases from dams shall be made
available on Project website and through other means of public dissemination.
11. Concerned project authorities shall develop appropriate mechanism to keep local
administration informed about the extreme inflows, sudden release of water and any other
exigency conditions. Directory of contact numbers of key persons of civil administration,
police, ambulance, fire station etc. shall be available with the officials responsible for such
communications, and a copy shall also be available in the Control Room. Regular
revision/updating of the Directory shall be carried out for its meaningful intent. Preparation
of Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for each dam is crucial for minimizing the loss of life and
property in the event of occurrence of any emergency situation. A typical EAP contains
procedures and information to assist the dam owner in taking necessary actions in time to
moderate or alleviate the problems, in addition to issuing early warning and notification
messages to responsible authorities, viz., District Magistrate /Collector, Armed forces,
Paramilitary forces, Project Authorities and other Central/State Agencies. It also contains
inundation maps to identify critical areas for prioritization of relief and rescue actions in case
of an emergency. Project Authorities shall ensure preparation and updation of the EAPs of
their dams as per Central Water Commission's guidelines available on CWC website at
http://www.cwc.gov.in/main/downloads/EAP chapter.pdf.
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Appendix – B: Checklist of Various Instruments installed in the Dam
Name of Dam:
Date Analys
Whet last Observat Agency is of Data
her calibra ions respons data sent to Rema
Since in tion/D maintain ible for done DSO rks
Sl. when work ate of ed data at regularl
N installed ing next (Yes/No) collectio field y?
o (Month/ condi calibra ) n and level (Yes/No
Name Nos
of Instruments Location Year) tion tion processi (Yes )
(Yes/ ng /No)
No)
HYDRO METEROLOGICAL INSTRUMENTS

Rain gauge on
1
Dam
Raingauge in the
2 catchment
3 Pan Evaporimeter
Wind Velocity
4
recorder
Wind direction
5
recorder
Wave Height
6
Recorder
Wet and dry bulb
7
Thermometer
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8 Barometer
Thermometers for
9
air Temp.
Thermometers for
10 Reservoir Water
Temp
Automatic
11
Weather Station
Reservoir level
gate
12 (i) Staff gate
(ii) Automatic
Other Hydro
meteorological
Instruments if any
13
(i)
(ii)
(iii) -
GEO-TECHNI CA L INSTRUMENTS
1 Piezometers
i. Stand pipe
ii. Casagrande
iii.Twin Tube
iv. Vibrating wire
2 Uplift pressure cell
i. For permeable
foundation
ii. For Rock
Foundation
3 Strain Gauge
i. Mechanical Strain
85
Gauge
ii. Electrical Strain
Gauge
4. Strain Meter
(i) Vibrating wire
5 Thermometers
(i) Resistance
(ii) Vibrating Wire
6 Stress Meter
(i) Mechanical
(ii) Electrical
Seepage
7
Measurement
(i) V-Notch
(ii) Other devices
8 Automation
(i) Data logger
Acquisition
(ii) Data System
(iii) Computers
9 (i) Plumb Bob Direct
(ii) Plumb Bob
Inverted
(iii) Detachable
Gauges for Surface
Displacement
(iv) Joint meter for

internal Joint
movement
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(vi) Foundation
Settlement
Deformation Meter
(vii) Inclinometer
10 Other Geotechnical
Instruments, if any
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
GEODETIC INSTRUMENTS
1 Total Station
2 Survey Markers
3 Settlement Plates
SEISMIC INSTRUMENTS
1 Seismograph
2 Accelerograph
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Appendix-C: Health Status Report
Name of the Dam :

Identification code :
Location (District
/Mandal/Village) :
Sl.No Observations / Signiicant Deficiencies Noticedby field staff Recommendations by SDSO /SDSIT Category
(1) (2) (3) (4)
* Category-1 : Deficiencies which may lead to failure

* Category-2 : Major Deficiencies requiring prompt remedial measures
* Category-3 : Minor remedial measures which are rectifiable during the year
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Name of the Dam :

Identification code:
Location (District /Mandal/Village) :
Whether action
Sl.No Observations by field Recommendations by SDSO Whether Action initiated completed Remarks/Reasons for
(1) staff (2) /SDSIT (3) (4) (5) pending if any (6)
********
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Appendix E: Evacuating Storage Reservoirs
CRITERIA AND GUIDELINES FOR EVACUATING STORAGE RESERVOIRS, SIZING LOW LEVEL
OUTLETS AND INITIAL FILLING OF RESERVOIR
(Central Water Commission, 1986)
General
All dams should be provided with low level outlets of adequate capacity to lower the reservoir
water level to a specified elevation for inspection, maintenance, and repair, to control the
rate of reservoir pool rise during initial filling and for emergency drawdown.
The drawdown levels, and the evacuation time shall be set forth for each project.
Criteria for Evacuating Facilities
For lowering the water level for inspection and repairs when necessary, the requirement
would be to evacuate a major portion of the reservoir in such time so that after the water
level is lowered, sufficient time is available for repairs before the water level rises due to
higher inflows. For such a consideration the outlets should be at the lowest possible level and
sufficient to cater for the anticipated inflows.
Other factors to be considered are:
To control the rate of reservoir rise during initial filling and if necessary subsequently also.
To hold the reservoir at predetermined levels for stage-wise initial filling.
Emergency drawdown during initial filling or at a future date when distress conditions are
noticed.
The low-level outlets should be sized to maintain specific reservoir filling rates and to hold the
reservoir levels reasonably constant at specified elevations during initial filling to accomplish
a predetermined monitoring program. The period during which the initial reservoir filling is to
be done has to be decided and a detailed program drawn up. Flood routing studies with
different frequency floods (lower floods) will have to be done. As such the low-level outlet
works should have discharge capacity sufficient to maintain reservoir filling rate to a pre -
specified program and to hold the reservoir levels reasonably constant for elevations above
fifty percent of the height. Inflows in the reservoir should include a reasonable frequency,
flood which would be dependent on the anticipated filling period.
The capacity and level of low-level outlets for emergency drawdown during initial filling or at
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a future date when distress conditions are noticed, must be evaluated in each individual case
separately.
For structural safety the reduction in height of water which gives relief is important. For very
large reservoirs this would mean very large capacity outlets for prompt evacuation.
Sizing of outlets works should be accomplished in a systematic way, considering the
following aspects:
Project release requirements.
Economic benefits that can be derived from using the outlet works in routing the inflow design
flood. This study may result in increase in outlet works capacity.
Initial filling requirement.
Evacuation criteria: This study to meet the evacuation criteria may result in future increase in
capacity which may in turn be beneficial in routing the inflow design flood.
After the above requirements are satisfied, a study to take advantage of the outlet works
capacity for diversion requirements during construction and the multistage construction of
outlet works is made.
Initial Filling of Reservoirs
Initial reservoir filling is the first test of a dam to perform its intended functions. As the sizing
of the outlet works to meet the probable outflow requirements during initial filling must be
fixed during designs, the information on the desired rates of pool rise must also be available
at the time the design requirements are established.
To monitor reservoir performance, the rate of filling should be controlled to the extent
feasible to allow in accomplishing a pre-determined monitoring program. Low level outlets
should be located and sized to provide discharge capacity sufficient to maintain the reservoir
filling rates specified by the initial filling criteria to hold reservoir levels reasonably constant
for elevation above 50% of the hydraulic height of the dam. Inflow into the reservoir should
be assumed as the average of the mean monthly inflow in the selected filling period and
reasonable frequency flood.
Reservoir filling criteria are established on a dam-to-dam basis. In general, the objective as
already stated above is to provide a planned program with adequate time for monitoring and
evaluating performance of the dam and its foundation as the reservoir is being filled for the
first time.
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The major factors to be considered in establishing initial filling criteria are as under:
a. Type of Dam – Concrete, earth, and rock fill.
b. Geology of the dam foundation and reservoir and land-slide potential along the banks of
the reservoir.
c. Hazard potential.
d. Inflow characteristics – controlled or uncontrolled.
e. Hydrology – flood patterns and seasonal based flows.
f. Release provisions for projects requirements, flood release and emergency evacuation.
g. Type of instrumentation and provision for monitoring – reading evaluation time needed
and response time.
h. Safe channel capacities – downstream of the dam.
i. Characteristics of reservoir – Storage.
Filling rates for concrete dams are much less restricted and are not normally specified for the
bottom half of the depth of the reservoir impounded of the dam. Broadly the stage -wise filling
to be done as under:
The first stage consists of filling the reservoir up to MDDL. This filling can be done without
restraint as there is no hazard potential to the public and economic development downstream
of the dam. The second stage consists of filling of the reservoir from MDDL to the crest of the
spillway. The rate of the filling should be controlled, and it must be specified. The third stage
consists of filling above the crest of the spillway up to the full reservoir level (FRL) which has
also to be conducted in stages.
CONCRETE DAMS
restraint.
The second stage consists of filling the reservoir from MDDL to the crest of spillway. The
reservoir above MDDL should be gradually built up at a rate not exceeding 3 meters per
fortnight depending upon the height of the dam and held at the level of crest of spillway in
order to assess the behavior of the structure on the basis of observed data and to take a
decision about further storage.
The third stage consists of filling above the crest of the spillway and up to full reservoir level
(FRL). Above the crest level of spillway the building up of the reservoir should be restricted to
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meter (1 ft.) in 48 hours and the same should be temporarily held at half the height between
the crest of spillway and FRL to monitor and assess the behavior of the structure before
further filling is resumed. The period for which the reservoir is held at this level will depend
on the instrument response time.
In case of concrete dams having high earthen flanks, the procedures suggested for earthen
dams should be followed.
EARTHEN DAMS
restraint.
The second stage consists of filling the reservoir from MDDL to the crest of spillway. In case
of earthen and rock fill dam this stage filling shall be done in two parts.
The reservoir above MDDL should be gradually built at a rate not exceeding 3 meters per fort-
night, and filling should be temporarily stopped at 50% elevation from MDDL to crest of spill-
way in order to assess the behavior of the structure on the basis of observed values and to
take a decision about further storage.
After decision is taken to continue the filling further building up of the storage sh ould be done
in gradual sub-stages of 2 to 3 meters depending upon the height of the dam. Observations
of pore pressure cells, uplift pressures, seepage quantum, other instrumentation data should
be carried out at each stage after allowing a suitable stabilizing period before going on to the
next sub- stage of filling.
The third stage consists of filling above the crest of the spillway up to the full reservoir level
(FRL).
The rate of reservoir filling above crest of the spillway should be restricted to 0. 3 meters (1
ft.) in 48 hours. The reservoir should be temporarily held at half the height between FRL and
crest of spillway for sufficient time for monitoring and evaluating performance of dam, also
considering instrument response time, and to take a decision about further storage.
Evacuation Time
Guidelines on this aspect should, generally consider the assessment of hazard potential and
risk potential of the dam. However, in the Indian conditions where population growth in
downstream areas is not controllable, the hazard potential at the initial stage and its
subsequent increase cannot be assessed. In most cases the dams would come under high
hazard category.
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Similarly, risk is very difficult to classify because of many combinations of adverse conditions
that may be involved at a particular dam site, and the type of dam.
Classification is also recommended to be based on the height of dams so far as determination
of risk potential is concerned and dams with a height of more than 50 meters are to be
considered more important than those of height less than 50 meters.
For evacuating storage reservoirs and sizing low-level outlets, three categories have been
suggested as given in the table below. These assume a general balance between hazard and
risk and could be adjusted based on detailed site-specific studies.
Evacuation Time (in Days)
Sl. Depth of Evacuation Degree of Hazard or risk

No. (from initial pool level) (Evacuation time in days)
High Significant Low
1. 25% 20 30 50
2. 50% 40 50 70
3. 75% 80 90 100
The above evacuation periods would generally be within the overall requirement to
drawdown the reservoir within a period of one to four months, allowing sufficient time for
carrying out inspection and repairs, before the water level rises due to higher inflows of
monsoon.
In some exceptional cases, it may not be technically possible and economically feasible to pro-
vide the required drawdown capability to meet the above criteria because of the size of the
project (unusually small or large) or because of some special feature. In such a case, the
criteria regarding drawdown level or the evacuation time could be altered to suit the site-
specific case if the results of studies so indicate.
These Guidelines were evolved by a Panel of Officers of Central Water Commission comprising
of Shri K. Madhavan, Member (D&R) & Chairman of the Panel; Shri P. Sen, Chief Engineer
(NHPD); Shri V.A. Prakash, Chief Engineer (Designs-II); Shri M.S. Reddy, Chief Engineer (De-
signs-I); Shri G.S. Narayana, Chief Engineer (DSO); Shri Z. Hasan, Director (ERDD-II) and Shri
K.D. Thite, Director (Dam Safety), Member Secretary.
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APPENDIX F - GLOSSARY
Abutment ― that part of a valley side against which a dam is constructed. Right and left
abutments are those on respective sides of an observer looking downstream.
Air-Vent Pipe ― a pipe designed to provide air to the outlet conduit to reduce turbulence
during release of water and safeguard against damages due to cavitation.
Appurtenant Structures ― ancillary features of a dam, such as the outlet, spillway, energy
dissipation arrangement powerhouse, tunnels, etc.
Arch Dam ― a concrete or masonry dam that is curved to transmit a major part of the water
pressure to the abutments.
Auxiliary Spillway (Emergency Spillway): a secondary spillway designed to operate only
during exceptionally large floods.
Backwater Curve ― the longitudinal profile of the water surface in an open channel where
the depth of flow has been increased by an obstruction, an increase in channel roughnes s, a
decrease in channel width, or a flattening of the bed slope.
Base Width (Base Thickness) ― the maximum width or thickness of a dam measured
horizontally between upstream and downstream faces and normal (perpendicular) to the axis
of the dam but excluding projections for outlets, etc.
Berm ― a horizontal step or bench in the sloping profile of an embankment dam.
Bulkhead gate ― a gate used either for temporary closure of a channel or conduit to empty
it for inspection or maintenance or for closure against flowing water when the head difference
is small, e.g., for diversion tunnel closure. Although a bulkhead gate is usually opened and
closed under nearly balanced pressures, it nevertheless may be capable of withstanding a
high-pressure differential when in the closed position.
Buttress dam ― a dam consisting of a watertight upstream face supported at intervals on the
downstream side by a series of buttresses.
Cofferdam ― a temporary structure enclosing all or part of a construction area so that
construction can proceed in a dry area.
Concrete Lift ― in concrete works the vertical distance between successive horizontal
construction joints.
Conduit Outlet Works ― a closed conduit for conveying discharge through or under a dam
for different project purposes.
95
Consolidation Grouting (Blanket Grouting) ― the injection of grout to consolidate a layer of

the foundation, resulting in greater impermeability, strength, or both.
Construction Joint ― the interface between two successive placings or pours of concrete
where a bond, not permanent separation, is intended.
Core Wall ― a wall built of impervious material, usually concrete or asphaltic concrete, in the
body of an embankment dam to prevent leakage.
Crest gate (spillway gate) ― a gate on the crest of a spillway to control overflow or reservoir
water level.
Crest Length ― the length of the dam at its crest (dam top) top of a dam, including the length
of the spillway, powerhouse, navigation lock, fish pass, etc., where these structures form part
of the length of a dam. If detached from a dam, these structures should not be included.
Crest of dam ― Used to indicate the top of dam. To avoid confusion to indicate the crest of
spillway and top of dam may be used.
Culvert ― a drain or waterway built under a road, railway, or embankment, usually consisting
of a pipe or covered conduits
Cutoff ― an impervious construction or material which reduces seepage through the
foundation material.
Cutoff trench ― an excavation later to be filled with impervious material to form a cutoff.
Cutoff wall ― a wall of impervious material (e.g., concrete, asphaltic concrete, steel-sheet
piling) built into the foundation to reduce seepage under the dam.
Dam – any artificial barrier including appurtenant works constructed across rivers or
tributaries thereof with a view to impound or divert water; includes barrage, weir and similar
water impounding structures but does not include water conveyance structures such as canal,
aqueduct and navigation channel and flow regulation structures such as flood embankments,
dikes, and guide bunds.
Dam failure – failures in the structures or operation of a dam which may lead to the
uncontrolled release of impounded water resulting in downstream flooding affecting the life
and property of the people.
Dam incident – all problems occurring to a dam that has not degraded into dam failure and
including the following:
a. Structural damage to the dam and appurtenant works.
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b. Unusual readings of instruments in the dam.
c. Unusual seepage or leakage through the dam body.
d. Change in the seepage or leakage regime.
e. Boiling or artesian conditions noticed below an earth dam.
f. Stoppage or reduction in seepage or leakage from the foundation or body of the dam
into any of the galleries, for dams with such galleries.
g. Malfunctioning or inappropriate operation of gates.
h. Occurrence of any flood, the peak of which exceeds the available flood discharge
capacity or 70% of the approved design flood.
i. Occurrence of a flood, which resulted in encroachment on the available free - board,

or the adopted design freeboard.
j. Erosion in the near vicinity, up to five hundred meters, downstream of the spillway,
waste weir, etc.; and
Any other event that prudence suggests would have a significant unfavorable impact on dam
safety.
Dam inspection – on-site visual examination of all components of dam and its appurtenances
by one or more persons trained in this respect and includes investigation of the non -overflow
portion, spillways, abutments, stilling basin, piers, bridge, downstream toe, drainage
galleries, operation of mechanical systems (including gates and its components, drive units,
cranes), interior of outlet conduits, instrumentation records, and record-keeping
arrangements.
Dam owner – the Central Government or a State Government or public sector undertaking or
local authority or company and any or all such persons or organizations, who own, control,
operate or maintain a specified dam.
Dam safety – the practice of ensuring the integrity and viability of dams such that they do not
present unacceptable risks to the public, property, and the environment. It requires the
collective application of engineering principles and experience, and a philosophy of risk
management that recognizes that a dam is a structure whose safe function is not explicitly
determined by its original design and construction. It also includes all actions taken to identify
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or predict deficiencies and consequences related to failure, and to document, publicize, and
reduce, eliminate, or remediate to the extent reasonably possible, any unacceptable risks.
Dead storage ― the storage that lies below the invert of the lowest outlet and that, therefore,
cannot be withdrawn from the reservoir.
Decommission ― Taking a dam out of service in an environmentally sound and
safe manner or converting it to another purpose.
Design flood ― see spillway design flood.
Design life ― the intended period that the dam will function successfully with only routine
maintenance; determined during design phase.
Diaphragm ― see membrane.
Dike (Levee) ― a long low embankment whose height is usually less than 5 m and whose
length are more than 10 times the maximum height. Usually applied to embankments or
structures built to protect land from flooding. If built of concrete or masonry, the structure is
usually referred to as a flood wall. Also, used to describe embankments that block areas on a
reservoir rim that are lower than the top of the main dam and that are quite long. In the
Mississippi River basin, where the old French word levee has survived, the term now ap- plies
to flood-protecting embankments whose height can average up to 15 m.
Distress condition – the occurrence or potential development of such conditions in the dam
or appurtenance or its reservoir or reservoir rim, which if left unattended to, may impede the
safe operation of dam for its intended benefits or may pose unacceptable risks to the life and
property of people downstream.
Diversion channel, canal, or tunnel ― a waterway used to divert water from its natural
course. These terms are generally applied to temporary structures such as those designed to
bypass water around a dam site during construction. ―Channel is normally used instead of
―canal when the waterway is short. Occasionally these terms are applied to permanent
structures.
Documentation – all permanent records concerning investigation, design, construction,
operation, performance, maintenance and safety of dams and includes design memorandum,
construction drawings, geological reports, reports of specialized studies simulating
structural and hydraulic response of the dam, changes made in design and drawings, quality
control records, emergency action plan, operation and maintenance manual, instrumentation
readings, inspection and testing reports, operational reports, and dam safety review reports;
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Drainage area ― an area that drains naturally to a point on a river.

Drainage layer or blanket ― a layer of permeable material in a dam to relieve pore pressure
or to facilitate drainage of fill.
Drawdown ― the lowering of water surface level due to release of water from a reservoir.
Earth dam (Earth fill dam) ― An embankment dam in which more than 50 percent of the
total volume is formed of compacted fine-grained material obtained from a borrow area.
Earthen dam or earth fill dam ― see embankment dam.
Embankment dam (Fill dam) ― any dam constructed of excavated natural materials.
Emergency Action Plan (EAP) ― a plan of action to be taken to reduce the potential for
damage to property and loss of life in the area affected by failure of a dam or other potentially
hazardous practice.
Emergency gate ― a standby or reserve gate which is lowers only for repairing/ servicing of
the service gate.
Emergency spillway ― see spillway.
Face ― the external surface of a structure, e.g., the surface of a wall of a dam.
Failure ― the uncontrolled release of water from a dam.
Filter (filter zone) ― A band or zone of granular material that is incorporated into a dam and
is graded (either naturally or by selection) to allow seepage to flow across or down the filter
without causing the migration of material from zones adjacent to it.
Fixed wheel gate (fixed-roller gate, fixed-axle gate) ― a gate having wheels or rollers
mounted on the end posts of the gate. The wheels move against rails fixed inside grooves or
gate guides.
Flap gate ― a gate hinged along one edge, usually either the top or bottom edge. Examples
of bottom-hinged flap gates are tilting gates and belly gates, so called due to their shape in
cross-section.
Flashboards ― a length of timber, concrete, or steel placed on the crest of a spillway to raise
the retention water level but that may be quickly removed in the event of a flood, e ither by a
tripping device or by deliberately designed failure of the flash- board or its supports.
Flood gate ― a gate to control flood release from a reservoir.
Flood routing ― the determination of the attenuating effect of storage on a flood passing
through a valley, channel, or reservoir.
Flood surcharge ― the volume or space in a reservoir between the controlled retention water
99
level (Full Reservoir Level) and the maximum water level. Flood surcharge cannot be retained
in the reservoir but will flow over the spillway until the controlled retention water level is
reached.
Flood wall ― a concrete wall constructed adjacent to a stream to prevent flooding of property
on the landward side of the wall, normally constructed in lieu of or to supplement a levee
where the land required for levee construction is expensive or not available.
Floodplain ― an area adjoining a body of water or natural stream that has been, or may be,
covered by flood water.
Floodplain management ― a management program to reduce the consequences of flooding,
either by natural runoff or by dam failure, to existing and future properties in a floodplain.
Foundation of dam ― the natural material on which the dam structure is placed.
Freeboard ― the vertical distance between a stated reservoir level and the top of a dam.
Normal freeboard is the vertical distance between Full Reservoir Level (FRL) and the top of
the dam. Minimum freeboard is the vertical distance between the Maximum Water Level
(MWL) and the top of the dam.
Full Reservoir Level (FRL)/Normal water level ― for a reservoir with un-gated spillway it is
the spillway crest level. For a reservoir, whose outflow is controlled wholly or partly by
movable gates, siphons, or other means, it is the maximum level to which water can be stored
under normal operating conditions, exclusive of any provision for flood surcharge.
Fuse-Plug Spillway ― an auxiliary or emergency spillway comprising a low embankment, or a
natural saddle designed to be overtopped and eroded away during a rare and exceptionally
large flood.
Gallery ― (a) a passageway within the body of a dam or abutment, hence the terms grouting
gallery, inspection gallery and drainage gallery
(b) a long and rather narrow hall, hence the following terms for a power plant viz. valve
gallery, transformer gallery and bus bar gallery.
Gate ― a device in which a leaf or member is moved across the waterway from an ex - ternal
position to control or stop the flow.
Gravity dam ― a dam constructed of concrete, masonry, or both that relies on its weight for
stability.
Grout cap ― a pad or wall constructed to facilitate pressure grouting of the grout curtain
beneath it.
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Grout curtain (grout cutoff) ― a barrier produced by injecting grout into a vertical zone,
usually narrow horizontally, in the foundation to reduce seepage under a dam.
Guard gate (guard valve) ― a gate or valve that operates fully open or closed. It may function
as a secondary device for shutting off the flow of water in case the primary closure device
becomes inoperable but is usually operated under conditions of balanced pressure and no
flow.
Hazard Classification ― a system that categorizes dams according to the degree of adverse
incremental consequences of a failure or improper operation of the dam. CWC classifies dam
hazards as ―low, ―significant, or ―high.
Height above lowest foundation ― the maximum height from the lowest point of the general
foundation to the top of the dam.
Homogeneous earth fill dam ― an embankment dam constructed of similar earth material
throughout, except internal drains or drainage blankets; distinguished from a zoned earth fill
dam.
Hydraulic fill dam ― an embankment dam constructed of materials, often dredged, that are
conveyed and placed by suspension in flowing water.
Hydraulic height ― the height to which water rises behind a dam and the difference between
the lowest point in the original streambed at the axis of the dam and the maximum
controllable water surface.
Hydrograph ― a graphic representation of discharge, stage, or other hydraulic property with
respect to time for a point on a stream. (At times the term is applied to the phenomenon the
graphic representation de- scribes; hence a flood hydrograph is the passage of a flood
discharge past the observation point.)
Inclinometer ― an instrument, usually consisting of a metal or plastic tube inserted in a drill
hole and a sensitized monitor either lowered into the tube or fixed within it. The monitor
measures at different points the inclination of the tube to the vertical. By integration, the
lateral position at various levels of the tube may be found relative to a point, usually the top
or bottom of the tube, assumed to be fixed. The system may be used to measure settlement.
Intake ― any structure in a reservoir, dam, or river through which water can be drawn into
an aqueduct.
Internal Erosion ― see piping.
Inundation map ― a map delineating the area that would be inundated in case of a failure.
101
Leakage ― Uncontrolled loss of water by flow through a hole or crack.

Lining ― a coating of asphaltic concrete, reinforced or unreinforced concrete, shotcrete,
rubber or plastic on a canal, tunnel etc. to provide water tightness, prevent erosion, reduce
friction, or support the periphery of structure. May also ref er to lining, such as steel or
concrete, of outlet pipe or conduit.
Low-level outlet (bottom outlet) ― an opening at a low level from a reservoir generally used
for emptying or for scouring sediment and sometimes for irrigation re - leases.
Maintenance ― the recurring activities necessary to retain or restore a dam in a safe and
functioning condition, including the management of vegetation, the repair or replacement of
failed components, the prevention or treatment of deterioration, and the repair of damages
caused by flooding or vandalism.
Masonry dam ― a dam constructed mainly of stone, brick, or concrete blocks that may or
may not be joined with mortar. A dam having only a masonry facing should not be referred
to as a masonry dam.
Maximum cross-section of dam ― a cross-section of a dam at the point of its maximum
height.
Maximum water level ― the maximum water level, including flood surcharge, the dam is
designed to withstand.
Membrane (Diaphragm) ― a sheet or thin zone or facing made of a flexible material,
sometimes referred to as a diaphragm wall or diaphragm.
Minimum operating level ― the lowest level to which the reservoir is drawn down under
normal operating conditions.
Morning glory spillway ― see spillway.
One-Hundred Year (100-Year) Exceedance Interval ― the flood magnitude expected to be
equaled or exceeded on the average of once in 100 years. It may also be expressed as an
exceedance frequency, i.e. a percent chance of being exceeded in any given year.
Operation ― the administration, management, and performance of maintenance activities
necessary to keep a dam safe and functioning as planned.
Outlet ― an opening through which water can be freely discharged from a reservoir.
Outlet gate ― a gate controlling the outflow of water from a reservoir.
Overflow dam ― a dam designed to be overtopped.
Parapet Wall ― a solid wall built along the top of a dam for ornament, for the safety of
102
vehicles and pedestrians, or to prevent overtopping.

Peak Flow ― the maximum instantaneous discharge that occurs during a flood. It coincides
with the peak of a flood hydrograph.
Pervious Zone ― a part of the cross- section of an embankment dam comprising material of
high permeability.
Phreatic Surface ― the top most flow line in an embankment dam.
Piezometer ― an instrument for measuring pore water pressure within soil, rock, or concrete.
Piping ― the progressive development of internal erosion by seepage, appearing
downstream as a hole or seam discharging water that contains soil particles.
Pore Pressure ― the interstitial pressure of water within a mass of soil, rock, or concrete.
Pressure Cell ― an instrument for measuring pressure within a mass of soil, rock, or concrete
or at an interface between one and the other.
Pressure Relief Pipes ― Pipes used to relieve uplift or pore water pressure in a dam‘s
foundation or structure.
Primary Spillway (Principal Spillway) ― the principal or first-used spillway during flood flows.
Probable Maximum Flood (PMF) ― a flood that would result from the most severe
combination of critical meteorologic and hydrologic conditions possible in the region.
Probable Maximum Precipitation (PMP)
― the maximum amount and duration of precipitation that can be expected to occur on a
drainage basin.
Program ― any authorized activity used to implement and carry out goals, actions, and
objectives contained within the authorizing legislation.
Program Life ― the period in a contract, conservation plan, or plan during which the
conservation practice or conservation system shall be maintained and used for the intended
purpose; determined by program requirements.
Pumped storage reservoir ― a reservoir filled entirely or mainly with water pumped from
outside its natural drainage area.
Radial gate (Tainter gate) ― a gate with a curved upstream plate and radial arms hinged to
piers or other supporting structures.
Regulating dam ― a dam impounding a reservoir from which water is released to regulate
Rehabilitation ― the completion of all work necessary to extend the service life of the
practice or component and meet applicable safety and performance standards.
103
Relief well ― vertical wells or boreholes, constructed downstream of an embankment

dam to relieve the pressure from confined pervious layers in foundation overlaid by an
impervious layer to arrest boiling.
Repair ― actions to restore deteriorated, damaged, or failed dam or its component to an
acceptable by meeting functional condition.
Replacement ― the removal of a structure or component and installation of a similar,
functional structure or component.
Reservoir area ― the surface area of a reservoir when filled to controlled retention level.
Reservoir routing ― the computation by which the interrelated effects of the inflow
hydrograph, reservoir storage, and discharge from the reservoir are evaluated.
Reservoir surface ― the surface of a reservoir at any level.
Riprap ― a layer of large stones, broken rock, or precast blocks placed randomly on the
upstream slope of an embankment dam, on a reservoir shore, or on the sides of a channel as
a protection against wave action. Large riprap is sometimes referred to as armoring.
Risk assessment ― as applied to dam safety, the process of identifying the likelihood and
consequences of dam failure to provide the basis for informed decisions on a course of action.
Rock fill dam ― an embankment dam in which more than 50 percent of the total volume
comprises compacted or dumped pervious natural or crushed rock.
Rock fill Dam ― see embankment dam.
Roll Crete or Roller-Compacted Concrete - a no-slump concrete that can be hauled in dump
trucks, spread with a bull- dozer or grader, and compacted with a vibratory roller.
Rolled fill dam ― an embankment dam of earth or rock in which the material is placed in
layers and compacted using rollers or rolling equipment.
Seepage ― the interstitial movement of water that may take place through a dam, its
foundation, or its abutments.
Service Life ― the actual period after construction of a dam, during which the practice
functions adequately and safely with only routine maintenance; determined by on-site
review.
Service/Regulating gate (regulating valve) ― a gate or valve that operates under full pressure
and flow to throttle and vary the rate of discharge.
Shaft Spillway (Morning Glory Spillway)
― a vertical or inclined shaft into which flood water spills and then is conducted through,
104
under, or around a dam by means of a conduit or tunnel. If the upper part of the shaft is
splayed out and terminates in a circular horizontal weir, it is termed a ― bell mouth or
―morning glory spillway.
Side Channel Spillway ― a spillway whose crest is roughly parallel to the channel immediately
downstream of the spillway.
Sill ― (a) A submerged structure across a river to control the water level upstream. (b) The
crest of a spillway. (c) A horizontal gate seating, made of wood, stone, concrete or metal at
the invert of any opening or gap in a structure, hence the expressions gate sill and stop log
sill.
Siphon Spillway ― a spillway with one or more siphons built at crest level. This type of
spillway is sometimes used for providing automatic surface -level regulation within narrow
limits or when considerable discharge capacity is necessary within a short period.
Slide gate (sluice gate) ― a gate that can be opened or closed by sliding it in supporting
guides.
Slope Protection ― the protection of a slope against wave action or erosion.
Sluiceway ― see low-level outlet.
Spillway ― a structure over or through which flood flows are discharged. If the flow is
controlled by gates, it is a controlled spillway; if the elevation of the spillway crest is the only
control, it is an uncontrolled spillway.
Spillway Channel (Spillway Tunnel) ― a channel or tunnel conveying water from the spillway
to the river downstream.
Stilling Basin ― a basin constructed to dissipate the energy of fast-flowing water, e.g., from
a spillway or bottom outlet, and to protect the riverbed from erosion.
Stop logs ― large logs or timber or steel beams placed on top of each other with their ends
held in guides on each side of a channel or conduit providing a cheaper or easily handled
temporary closure than a bulkhead gate.
Storage ― the retention of water or delay of runoff either by planned operation, as in a
reservoir, or by temporary filling of overflow areas, as in the progression of a flood crest
through a natural stream channel.
Tail water Level ― the level of water in the tailrace at the nearest free surface to the turbine
or in the discharge channel immediately downstream of the dam.
Tailrace ― the tunnel, channel or conduit that conveys the discharge from the turbine to the
105
river, hence the terms tailrace tunnel and tailrace canal.

Toe of Dam ― the junction of the downstream face of a dam with the ground surface,
referred to as the downstream toe. For an embankment dam the junction of upstream face
with ground surface is called the upstream toe.
Top of Dam ― the elevation of the upper- most surface of a dam, usually a road or walkway,
excluding any parapet wall, railings, etc.
Top Thickness (Top Width) ― the thickness or width of a dam at the level of the top of the
dam. In general, ―thickness is used for gravity and arch dams, ―width for other dams.
Transition Zone (Semi-pervious Zone) ― a part of the cross-section of a zoned embankment
dam comprising material of intermediate size between that of an impervious zone and that
of a permeable zone.
Trash rack ― a screen located at an intake to prevent the ingress of debris.
Tunnel ― a long underground excavation usually having a uniform cross-section. Types of
tunnel include headrace tunnel, pressure tunnel, collecting tunnel, diversion tunnel, power
tunnel, tailrace tunnel, navigation tunnel, access tunnel, scour tunnel, draw -off tunnel, and
spillway tunnel.
Under seepage ― the interstitial movement of water through a foundation.
Uplift ― the upward pressure in the pores of a material (interstitial pressure) or on the base
of a structure.
Upstream Blanket ― an impervious layer placed on the reservoir floor upstream of a dam. In
case of an embankment dam, the blanket may be connected to the impermeable element in
a dam.
Valve ― a device fitted to a pipeline or orifice in which the closure member is either rotated
or moved transversely or longitudinally in the waterway to control or stop the flow.
Water stops ― a strip of metal, rubber or other material used to prevent leakage through
joints between adjacent sections of concrete.
106

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Government of Telangana

Irrigation &CAD Department

Guidelines for Operation

Guidelines for preparing operation and maintenance Manual for dams in no

For any information, please contact

CHAPT ER -I: GENERAL INFORMATION .....................................................................................................................

1.1 Purpose, Location and Description Of DAM ................................................................................................................. 1

1.2 Assignment of Responsibility ...................................................................................................................................... 2

1.3 Collection & Reporting OF DAM and Reservoir Data ..................................................................................................... 3

1.4 Water Resources Monitoring system........................................................................................................................... 5

1.5 Public Utilities and Safety ........................................................................................................................................... 6

1.6 Restricted Areas ......................................................................................................................................................... 7

1.7 Staff position, Communication & Warning System ....................................................................................................... 7

1.8 Distribution of Operation & Maintenance Manuals ...................................................................................................... 9

1.9 Supporting Documents & Reference Material.............................................................................................................. 9

1.10 Typical Schedule of Duties....................................................................................................................................... 10

CHAPT ER -2: PROJECT OPERATION ........................................................................................................................

2.1 Operation Plan......................................................................................................................................................... 17

2.2 Normal Operations................................................................................................................................................... 17

2.4 Em er g enc y Op erati on s ......................................................................................................................................... 24

2.5 Drawdown Facility .................................................................................................................................................. 28

2.6 Initial Filling of Reservoir.......................................................................................................................................... 29

2.7 Rec ord K eepi ng ..................................................................................................................................................... 31

Chapter 3.PROJECT INSPECTION ..............................................................................................................................

3.1 Objective of dam inspection...................................................................................................................................... 35

3.2 Types of dam safety inspections:............................................................................................................................... 35

Chapter 4. PROJECT MAINTENANCE .....................................................................................................................

4.1 Maintenance Plan .................................................................................................................................................... 63

4.2 Maintenance Priorities ............................................................................................................................................. 63

4.3 Procedures for undertaking Routine Maintenance works ........................................................................................... 65

4.4 Hydro - Mechanical & Electrical Equipments: ............................................................................................................ 71

4.5 Access Roads............................................................................................................................................................ 71

4.6 General Cleaning...................................................................................................................................................... 71

4.7 Materials requirements for maintenance during monsoon period .............................................................................. 71

4.8 Preparation of O&M budget ..................................................................................................................................... 72

4.9 Apportionment of O&M cost in respect of inter-state projects ................................................................................... 72

Chapter 5. INSTRUMENTATION AND MONITORING .............................................................................................

5.1 Details to be included in an O&M Manual ................................................................................................................. 74

5.2 Instrument Types and Usage .................................................................................................................................... 75

5.3 Frequency of Monitoring .......................................................................................................................................... 75

5.4 Data Processing and Evaluation................................................................................................................................ 76

5.5 Visual Observations:................................................................................................................................................. 78

Chapter 6. UPDATING THE MANUAL ......................................................................................................................

Appendix A: Strengthening of Alarm and Warning System .............................................................................................. 80

Appendix – B: Checklist of Various Instruments installed in the Dam................................................................................ 84

Appendix-C: Health Status Report................................................................................................................................... 88

Appendix-D: Action Taken Report ................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

Appendix E: Evacuating Storage Reservoirs..................................................................................................................... 90

GPS Global Positioning System (uses GPRS for data transmis-

CHAPTER -1: GENERAL INFORMATION

An Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Manual of a dam is a detailed written description of

1.1 Purpose, Location and Description Of DAM

The following information needs to be included in the Manual:

1.1.1. Name of the dam.

1.1.9. Salient features of dam.

1.2 Assignment of Responsibility

Table 1: Assignment of Responsibility

Project Administration-Officer-in- Executive Engineer of concerned Dam