Haldwani, July 5 -- The irrigation department has proposed the construction of a new dam in Bhimtal lake, citing serious concerns over the structural integrity of the existing 142-year-old British-era dam. According to officials, the dam, located in Bhimtal town of Nainital district, has long outlived its designated lifespan. Built in 1883, the dam completed its expected life 42 years ago and is now considered structurally vulnerable. Sanjay Shukla, chief engineer of the irrigation department, Kumaon region, said, "The Victoria Dam was constructed in 1883 during the British era to supply drinking water from Bhimtal Lake. After independence, it was renamed Bhimtal Dam. At the time of its construction, engineers had estimated its lifespan to be 100 years, which ended in 1983. Despite this, the dam continues to supply drinking and irrigation water to the plains. However, it has now completed 142 years." Shukla added that over time, the dam's condition has deteriorated significantly, with noticeable leakage in its walls. In response to this, a study was initiated nearly 18 months ago under the Study Work for Stability of Bhimtal Dam Yojana, at a cost of approximately Rs.1.99 crore. The study was conducted by Delhi-based Flood Con Company. While the leakage was temporarily controlled, officials said there is no guarantee on how much longer the dam can safely function. Irrigation Minister Satpal Maharaj and Secretary Yugal Kishore Pant recently held a meeting with irrigation officials to discuss the issue. It was decided that a new dam must be constructed. Following this, minister Maharaj directed officials to prepare a detailed report. "We have begun working on the proposal for a new dam," said an official. "It will be submitted to the irrigation minister soon. The new dam will incorporate modern technology, including concrete walls and an automatic silt removal system." Officials explained that the existing structure is a masonry dam built with stone and lime during the British era. The dam spans an area of 45.3 hectares, with a catchment area of 17.12 square kilometers and a storage capacity of 4.59 million cubic meters. Two days ago, secretary Jugal Kishore Pant also visited the dam site to assess its current condition....