With the resumption of pumping in the Thammanam water storage tank through its functional Chamber 2, the Kerala Water Authority (KWA) is now assessing the structural integrity of Chamber 1, the one that burst, as they plan to rework it. Plans are being made to strengthen both the structure and the foundation to prevent future problems.
Recently, the side wall of one of the chambers of the two-chamber water tank collapsed. The tank, which has a capacity of 1.35 million litres, was commissioned in 1985. It partially collapsed after the foundation sank into the soil.
The damaged side is dismantled. According to KWA, retaining the damaged wall poses a safety risk, so it will be removed and a new wall will be built that integrates with the existing structure. In addition, thorough checks will be made to check for any leaks or cracks inside the chamber.
The KWA said it is finalizing a design to renovate the reservoir. The plan includes strengthening both the reservoir and its foundation. In response to the risk of soil erosion, soil stabilization will be carried out by injecting lime or cement slurry.
“Since the structure is old, strengthening measures are necessary. Since the water load is evenly distributed and not concentrated at one point as in the case of a multi-storey building, soil stabilization can be done. This is a proposal that is currently being considered but we have to assess its effectiveness,” said a KWA source. The proposal will be implemented if it receives approval from the high-level commission formed after the accident.
Published – 20 Nov 2025 21:42 IST
