The joint venture of SMEC and Stucky has been appointed to the Dams Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) in India as engineering and management consultant for Phase II and III.
Engaged by India’s Central Water Commission (CWC), the project marks an important milestone to improve the safety and performance of selected dams across the country. Co-funded by the World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), DRIP Phase II and III will be implemented across 19 states and three Central Agencies, including CWC.
With emphasis on institutional strengthening, the team will support system-wide management consultancy to embed sustainable operational and asset maintenance capability, long term. The project is to be implemented over a period of 10 years.
The project scope includes four key components:
Rehabilitation and improvement of selected dams and associated appurtenances
Dam safety institutional strengthening
Incidental revenue generation for sustainable operation and maintenance of dams
Project management
Outcomes of the project will include improved safety, increased water availability and reduced flood risk, safeguarding communities against climate change impacts.
“This partnership comes at a crucial juncture as we work together to ensure the safety and functionality of our nation’s dams. We look forward to witnessing the positive impact of this endeavor on the communities and the environment,” said Smt. Debashree Mukherjee, special secretary, CWC.
“This project is aligned with SMEC’s mission to create infrastructure that stands the test of time, safeguards precious resources, and propels India’s development agenda to new heights,” said Mallikarjunagouda Patil, director of SMEC. “As we celebrate India’s 77th Independence Day, we are honored to have been chosen for this prestigious project that aligns perfectly with our vision of building a sustainable future. Our joint venture is excited to contribute our expertise and technical acumen to rehabilitate these vital dams, ensuring their long-term viability and the safety of surrounding communities.”