UJVN Limited organized a “Community Awareness Program on Dam Safety–2026” at the Pashulok Barrage area in Rishikesh to enhance public awareness regarding dam safety. The program was conducted under the Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) in coordination with the Central Water Commission (CWC) and the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA).
The program was inaugurated by UJVNL Director (Projects), Suresh Chandra Baluni. In his address, he emphasized that such initiatives are aimed at strengthening community awareness and assured that UJVNL will continue to organize similar public-oriented programs in the future.
During the session, experts and officials delivered insightful presentations on dam safety, disaster management, weather forecasting, and community participation. Experts from reputed organizations including the Central Water Commission, India Meteorological Department (IMD), National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), NDRF, SDRF, ISRO, NRSC, C-DAC, and the state administration highlighted the importance of modern technology and coordinated efforts in ensuring dam safety.
Representatives from the Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (USDMA) stressed the significance of dam safety from a disaster management perspective, while SDRF officials shared their expertise on emergency response and rescue operations. UJVNL officials also presented a detailed overview of the operation, challenges, and safety measures related to the Virbhadra Barrage.
In the afternoon session, local representatives, village heads, and residents from downstream areas actively participated and shared their valuable suggestions and experiences. The interaction aimed at strengthening coordination between the community and administration.
The program also included a plantation drive and an awareness rally at the Virbhadra Barrage site, with enthusiastic participation from local schools, voluntary organizations, and citizens. The initiative focused on promoting environmental conservation alongside public awareness on dam safety.
On the occasion, General Manager Adarsh Nautiyal highlighted that such programs not only raise awareness but also enhance community preparedness for disaster response. Hon’ble MLA Premchand Aggarwal and Mayor Shambhu Paswan also attended the event and encouraged participants.
The event witnessed the presence of several distinguished dignitaries including A.P. Thapliyal (Director, Geological Survey of India), Mayank Kumar Gupta (Assistant Director, Central Water Commission), Rohit Thapliyal (Scientist, IMD), Ms. Aasiya Begum (Scientist, ISRO), Dr. Pooja Rana (State Disaster Management Authority), along with UJVNL officials Hemant Kumar Srivastava and Shailesh Kumar Mishra, and local representatives including Gram Pradhan Anjali Sajwan, Rishi Prasad Ranakoti, and Sangeeta Thapliyal.
A large number of public representatives, officials, employees of UJVN Limited, and members of the general public actively participated in the program.
