Jaipur, Sept. 24 -- A total of eight dams in Rajasthan have been selected for rehabilitation and safety improvement under the World Bank-funded Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project, with an environmental and social assessment placing the proposed interventions in the low-to-moderate risk category. The dams are Bisalpur, Mahi Bajaj Sagar, Som Kamla Amba, Jawai, Sukli Selwara, Chhapi, Matrikundia and Gambhiri, according to an environmental and social management framework prepared by Rajasthan's water resources and planning department in August. The proposed interventions include measures to control seepage, repair cracks, strengthen spillways, improve drainage systems and restore sections of earthen dams. The project also envisages repairing or replacing gates, automating gate operations, renovating approach roads and control rooms, and installing surveillance systems, warning sirens and instruments to monitor dam conditions. The assessment said the work would largely remain confined to existing dam premises and that land required for the interventions was already available with the implementing authorities. No fresh land acquisition, physical displacement or economic displacement is currently anticipated. Construction-related effects, including dust, noise, debris generation and occupational safety risks, are expected to be localised and manageable. The assessment, however, said labourers could be at project sites for periods from a few months to around three years, requiring labour and community health management plans. Bisalpur and Jawai dams are located near conservation areas and will require biodiversity management plans. However, no work has been proposed inside the conservation areas. Mahi Bajaj Sagar and Som Kamla Amba fall in Scheduled V tribal areas, requiring separate tribal development plans. It said the works would reduce risks for downstream communities vulnerable to flooding....