Mandi: IIT’s Underwater Vehicle to Probe Reservoir Conditions Beneath Dams

Mandi, April 23: After a dam is constructed, it becomes nearly impossible to assess the geographical conditions beneath the reservoir without specialized equipment. To address this, IIT Mandi has developed a Fixed Thruster Underwater Vehicle designed to investigate critical aspects such as silt accumulation and the structural integrity of a dam’s inner walls.

This project marks the second collaboration between IIT Mandi and IIT Palakkad. The two institutions previously worked together on a fish-shaped device capable of monitoring underwater movements in oceans.

Assistant Professor Jagdish of IIT Mandi shared insights into the newly developed vehicle, stating that it is capable of diving up to 200 meters below the water surface. The vehicle can conduct detailed underwater surveys, assess silt levels within the dam reservoir, and evaluate the condition of the dam’s internal walls. Should any internal cracks be present, the vehicle can detect and report them with precision.

Professor Jagdish also pointed out that underwater assessments are currently carried out with the help of divers. However, the new underwater vehicle offers a more efficient and safer alternative. Beyond inspections, the vehicle is also equipped to perform complex underwater tasks such as welding and cutting.

The vehicle has already undergone successful trials in a reservoir near Sundernagar, with support from BBMB (Bhakra Beas Management Board). Encouraged by the positive results, efforts are now underway to formally approve the project and begin practical deployment.