Pothireddypadu Ninth Gate Falls During Trial
Preliminary information suggests that Gates Nos. 1, 2, 9 and 10 had not been operated properly for several days. Officials suspect that prolonged non-operation and lack of periodic maintenance may have weakened the metal ropes and other components.
Kurnool: A major mishap occurred at the Pothireddypadu Head Regulator in Kurnool district when the metal rope connected to Gate No. 9 snapped while the gate was being lifted, causing the heavy structure to crash down and triggering panic among project staff.
The incident occurred when officials were operating the gate as part of measures to regulate water flow and undertake maintenance works. The rope reportedly gave way suddenly as the gate was being raised, following which the gate fell and came to a halt below.
Preliminary information suggests that Gates Nos. 1, 2, 9 and 10 had not been operated properly for several days. Officials suspect that prolonged non-operation and lack of periodic maintenance may have weakened the metal ropes and other components.
The sudden failure of the rope has raised concerns over the condition and maintenance of the regulator gates, which play a crucial role in regulating water released through the Pothireddypadu system to the Rayalaseema region.
Officials are expected to inspect the damaged gate and its lifting mechanism to ascertain the exact cause of the rope failure. They will also assess the condition of the other gates and take necessary measures to prevent a recurrence. No casualties were reported in the incident.