Pioneering Disaster Management System at Tehri Dam Earns National Recognition

Rishikesh, March 22, 2025 – When floodwaters surge, every second counts. For THDC India Limited (THDCIL), ensuring the safety of millions downstream of the Tehri Dam is a mission that demands precision, foresight, and cutting-edge technology. This relentless pursuit of excellence has earned THDCIL the Gold Award for “Digital Innovation in Disaster Management” at the prestigious ETGovernmentDigiTech Awards 2025.

Presented on March 18, 2025, at Hyatt Regency, New Delhi, the award recognizes THDCIL’s Digital Disaster Management System, a technological breakthrough that integrates real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and automated early warning mechanisms. The accolade places THDCIL at the forefront of India’s digital transformation in disaster resilience.

Technology at the Core of Disaster Resilience

At the heart of THDCIL’s innovation is its Inflow Forecasting System, established in 2016. Designed to predict reservoir inflows 6 to 24 hours in advance, the system operates using 11 Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) and four Automatic Gauge and Discharge (AG&D) stations spread across the Tehri Catchment. By blending Geomorphologic Instantaneous Unit Hydrograph (GIUH) deterministic modeling with Stochastic ARMAX models, THDCIL has enhanced flood risk mitigation and optimized water resource management.

Sh. R.K. Vishnoi, CMD, THDCIL, hailed the achievement as a milestone in the company’s journey toward technological excellence. “Our Digital Disaster Management System is a testament to THDCIL’s commitment to innovation, public safety, and sustainability. By leveraging advanced forecasting models, we can effectively manage flood risks and ensure the security of downstream communities,” he said.

National Spotlight on Digital Transformation

The significance of THDCIL’s work was underscored by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, who served as the Chief Guest at the ET DigiTech Awards 2025. He emphasized the growing role of AI, Machine Learning, and Augmented/Virtual Reality in modern governance, highlighting how digital innovation is shaping India’s public infrastructure.

For THDCIL, this isn’t the first recognition for digital excellence. The company was previously honored with the 2024 PSU Leadership & Excellence Award in Leadership in Digital Transformation, reinforcing its standing as a pioneer in smart infrastructure solutions.

Beyond Awards: A Commitment to Public Safety

The impact of THDCIL’s Digital Disaster Management System extends far beyond accolades. Sh. Shallinder Singh, Director (Personnel), THDCIL, stressed the broader implications of the award. “It’s not just about recognition—it’s about lives saved, resources protected, and communities safeguarded. This achievement drives us to further refine our digital capabilities,” he said.

Sh. Bhupender Gupta, Director (Technical), THDCIL, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how the system has transformed reservoir operations, particularly during monsoon seasons. “By integrating real-time data and predictive analytics, we are ensuring a higher degree of preparedness, minimizing risks, and maximizing efficiency,” he noted.

Looking Ahead: Innovation for a Safer Tomorrow

As climate change intensifies weather unpredictability, the need for robust, tech-driven disaster management systems is greater than ever. THDCIL’s success at the ETGovernmentDigiTech Awards 2025 is not just a celebration of past achievements—it is a stepping stone toward the future.

With a firm commitment to digital transformation, sustainability, and public safety, THDCIL continues to set new benchmarks in disaster resilience, proving that when technology and vision converge, the results can be lifesaving.