Sabotage suspected in check dam’s collapse, demand for its reconstruction grows

Even as a detailed inquiry is underway to ascertain the exact cause of the collapse of a check dam across the Manair River in Gumpula village of Peddapalli district, the demand for reconstruction of the damaged structure gathered pace to safeguard the interests of local farmers.

The check dam was constructed in 2022 at an estimated cost of ₹19 crore benefiting the farmers of Gumpula and its adjoining villages. It suddenly collapsed three days ago triggering doubts among villagers about ‘sabotage’ by the sand mafia. A section of the local farmers raised doubts over the way the structure, which withstood heavy flow of water in the river during the recent monsoon season, could cave in just three years after its construction.

This has prompted the authorities to order a detailed inquiry into the incident. According to sources, a thorough investigation is underway to establish the cause of the check dam’s collapse. A joint team of the police and the Irrigation department officials has already inspected the site and launched a thorough investigation.