New Delhi, September 2025 — India’s vast hydrological infrastructure is showing signs of strain as many of its large dams approach or exceed their intended lifespans. According to the National Register of Large (Specified) Dams 2023, about 1,065 dams are between 50–100 years old, while 224 have already crossed the 100-year mark.

Most of India’s big dams were constructed in the decades following Independence, particularly after the 1950s, to support irrigation, power generation, and urban water supply. Many of these structures are now in the last stages of their original lifespan, raising questions about safety, efficiency, and the urgent need for repair or decommissioning.

⚠️ Key Concerns

Safety risks: Ageing dams are more vulnerable to structural issues, particularly during extreme rainfall events and floods.

Declining efficiency: Siltation in reservoirs reduces storage capacity, undermining irrigation and hydropower output.

Maintenance challenges: Many older dams lack modern monitoring systems and need extensive retrofitting.

Climate stress: With erratic monsoons and increased extreme weather events, older dams face additional stress.

🛠️ What’s Being Done

India has launched the Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) with World Bank support to strengthen ageing structures and improve monitoring systems. Yet, experts argue that the scale of the challenge — with thousands of dams approaching critical age — demands more investment and a long-term national dam safety strategy.

🧭 Why It Matters

Dams are central to India’s water security, irrigation, flood control, and energy needs. As the country balances climate change impacts with growing demand, ensuring the safety and efficiency of ageing hydrological infrastructure will be vital to avoid both economic losses and potential disasters.