Faridabad, June 22, 2026: NHPC Limited, India’s leading hydropower company, has officially inaugurated SPANDAN, a state-of-the-art centralized real-time seismic data monitoring center designed to enhance dam safety, earthquake surveillance, and the operational reliability of its hydroelectric projects across the country.
The facility was inaugurated by Shri Bhupender Gupta, Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of NHPC, at the company’s Corporate Office in Faridabad. The ceremony was attended by Directors, Heads of Departments, and senior officials, while representatives from NHPC’s hydroelectric project sites participated virtually.
A Landmark Initiative for Dam Safety
Developed in compliance with the Dam Safety Act, 2021, SPANDAN is the first integrated centralized seismic monitoring facility within NHPC that consolidates real-time seismic data from multiple hydroelectric projects into a single monitoring platform.
The advanced monitoring system currently integrates:
- 90 Strong Motion Instruments
- 15 Broadband Seismic Instruments
- 105 Total Seismic Monitoring Devices installed across NHPC’s hydroelectric projects
The centralized platform enables 24/7 real-time monitoring, rapid analysis of seismic activity, and improved decision-making to safeguard critical hydro infrastructure located in earthquake-prone regions.
Enhancing Safety Through Advanced Technology
Speaking at the inauguration, Shri Bhupender Gupta emphasized that SPANDAN represents a major milestone in NHPC’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure safety, earthquake preparedness, and risk management.
He highlighted the future integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and predictive analytics into the system, enabling the development of early warning capabilities for earthquake-related risks. Such technological advancements are expected to improve operational safety, minimize potential hazards, and enhance emergency response for hydroelectric facilities.
Focus on Research and Predictive Analysis
Addressing the gathering, Shri Sanjay Kumar Singh, Director (Projects), stressed the importance of adopting advanced analytical methodologies and utilizing valuable seismic data collected from the Himalayan region.
He noted that the centralized database would support scientific research, predictive earthquake analysis, and long-term improvements in disaster preparedness, helping engineers and researchers better understand seismic patterns affecting critical infrastructure.
A Significant Technical Achievement
Shri Suprakash Adhikari, Director (Technical), described SPANDAN as a technologically advanced facility developed through extensive engineering expertise and coordination.
He acknowledged the significant challenge of integrating real-time seismic monitoring instruments installed across geographically dispersed hydroelectric projects into one centralized monitoring network capable of delivering continuous and reliable data.
Strengthening India’s Hydropower Infrastructure
According to NHPC, the launch of SPANDAN marks a significant step toward improving the resilience, safety, and operational reliability of hydroelectric infrastructure located in seismically active zones.
The initiative supports India’s broader objectives of promoting disaster risk reduction, critical infrastructure protection, scientific innovation, and sustainable energy development while ensuring compliance with the Dam Safety Act, 2021.
Looking Ahead
With the successful commissioning of SPANDAN, NHPC Limited has established a robust foundation for real-time seismic monitoring, advanced earthquake research, and technology-driven dam safety management. The company expects the facility to play a vital role in protecting critical hydropower assets, improving emergency preparedness, and strengthening India’s long-term infrastructure resilience against natural disasters.