KSEB to acquire automated quake assessment system

Thursday, 12 July 2012 07:07

In order to improve its efficiency in assessing seismic movements and their effect on dams and allied structures, the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) is replacing manual assessment mechanisms with automated ones.The board will set up six broadband seismometers at seismological observatories and five accelerographs in Idukki and adjoining Pamba dams.

According to KSEB member (generation projects) Annamma John, acquisition and installation of the new set of sophisticated equipment will help the board keep a tab on the repercussions of earthquakes of all magnitudes in the vicinity of hydro-power plants, especially those in Idukki district.

KSEB currently has one advanced system at Moolamattom for gauging the impact of earthquakes. However, the mechanisms now in use at most other dam sites are old and worn out, having been installed in the late 60s and 70s, and are operated manually.

Seismometers are likely to be installed in seismic stations at Kulamavu, Aladi, Chottupara, Meencut, Vallakkadavu and Pampa. Accelerographs will be set up at Idukki and Vallakkadavu dams. While seismometers are used to assess the movement of soil in the wake of earthquakes, accelerographs are used to assess the impact of seismic movements on structures like dams.

According KSEB estimates, installation and networking of the advanced equipment will cost around Rs 2.63 crore.

Source- Times of India, July 12