Science and technology have proved to be invaluable tools for progress and development and will continue to be so. In olden days when people were backward and ignorant and science was not yet well-developed they were very superstitious. But nowadays life has totally changed and will continue to change for better or for worse depending on humans themselves since science is dynamic, that is, always changing, developing, and expanding. Machines and machineries are scientific instruments which replace manual labour and thus facilitate smooth progress at faster speed. By keenly observing nature and environment humans can predict what will happen next with high probability so that precautions can accordingly be taken and so prevent any future disaster. Geographical condition of Meghalaya is quite volatile and unpredictable and hence any type of construction needs prior study by experts who will then issue necessary instructions and warnings. After construction is completed there should be regular inspection and follow-up action is required.
Umiam bridge on Guwahati-Shillong National Highway is a vital link which connects Meghalaya with some North East (NE) states like Assam, Manipur and Mizoram. During these last few years vehicles of all types including trucks with heavy loads plying across the bridge have increased at an alarming rate causing deterioration and making it unsafe. Hence government has decided to construct a new bridge over Umiam Dam. About a month back after proper inspection and investigation by a consultant an alternative site for construction of a new bridge has been proposed. Prior to this, Meghalaya High Court had cautioned the state government of the impending danger and the urgency for an alternative bridge over the reservoir. Meanwhile, the court had also directed the state not to allow vehicles with loads of more than 10 metric tons to pass through the existing bridge. At the same time, government has assured that long-term measures are being studied and accordingly will be taken for its safety.
Construction of Umiam dam by the then Assam government for generation of hydro-electric power was undertaken by a Japanese company and completed in 1965. Life span of the dam was estimated to be 100 years but due to soil condition and heavy rainfall it has been reduced by 41 years and so will end by early 2024 instead of 2065. Â After a period of 25 years in 1990, assessment of siltation at the dam was conducted by M/S Water and Power Consultancy Services (WAPCOS) and in 2004 by M/S Tojo Vikas International Private Limited (TVIPL), New Delhi. Recently, that is, in 2019 the Assembly Committee on Environment conducted an inspection of the dam. Due to heavy rainfall, top soil from the nearby hills and uplands were washed down to the dam causing thick and voluminous sediment. This fact was brought to their notice by Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL). For desiltation and revamping of Umiam dam Government of India will extend financial assistance worth Rs 400 crore under Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) the amount being aided by Asian Development Bank.