The government has dismissed a fake video circulating on social media that falsely claims the wall of the Bhakra Nangal Dam has developed a tilt of 1.77 inches. The video makes a further claim that a possible breach of the dam could lead to flooding in several cities, including Delhi.
The Fact Check Unit of the Press Information Bureau (PIB) has clarified that the claim is false.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
The central issue is misinformation, not a new dam-safety incident.
The 1.77-inch figure circulating online does not match the official measurement cited by PIB.
cited by PIB. The episode highlights how false infrastructure warnings can quickly create public panic when shared without verification.
According to the PIB clarification, the actual recorded deflection of the dam wall on August 27, 2024, was 0.86 inches, and not 1.77 inches as claimed in the circulating video.
PIB also stated that key safety parameters of the dam, including stress, strain, pore pressure and seepage, are within the prescribed permissible limits.
The government has therefore said that the dam is completely safe and there is no basis for the claim that its wall has developed a dangerous tilt.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
False claims about major dams can cause unnecessary panic, particularly when they suggest an imminent flood threat. The PIB clarification provides an official assessment that the dam remains within prescribed safety parameters.
The misleading video has circulated amid concerns about dam safety and possible flooding, potentially creating unnecessary fear among people in downstream areas.
PIB urged the public not to believe or circulate sensational claims without verifying them through official sources. The clarification comes as authorities continue to monitor misinformation circulating online, particularly content involving natural disasters, infrastructure and public safety.
