Silt management in run-of-the river hydroelectric project - A case study
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31/03/2008
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Journal of Indian Water Works Association
The present study evaluated the options of silt disposal from Beas Satluj Link (BSL) hydroelectric project in Himachal Pradesh in India. BSL project is basically a run of the river power project, envisages diversion of about 4700 MCM per annum of Beas river water into Satlej river falling through an elevation difference at about 320 m. The present practice of silt disposal from BSL project into nearby Sukheti Khad has created some aquatic environmental, agricultural and social problems due to flat topography of the Khad preventing the free flow of the silt during non monsoon period. A fresh touch was given to the issue of options for silt disposal. The topic was treated in two sub-sections namely (a) reduction in silt load entering the balancing reservoir and (b) removal and disposal of silt sediment from the balancing reservoir. Merits and demerits of the various options were evaluated and the most preferred option was suggested for proper disposal of silt from the BSL project.